Pygmy copperhead

The pygmy copperhead (Austrelaps labialis) is a venomous, elapid, snake species.

Pygmy copperhead
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Elapidae
Genus: Austrelaps
Species:
A. labialis
Binomial name
Austrelaps labialis
(Jan, 1859)
Synonyms

Alecto labialis Jan, 1859

Taxonomy

It is not closely related to the American Copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix.

Distribution and habitat

It is endemic to Australia and restricted to South Australia (state), particularly Kangaroo Island.

Behavior

It is common but rarely seen, being unobtrusive, and hiding under leaf litter, old iron and haystacks.

References

  1. Fenner, A.; Hutchinson, M.; McDonald, P.; Robertson, P. (2018). "Austrelaps labialis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2018. Retrieved 19 July 2018.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
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