Rhabdophis ceylonensis
—
Sri Lankan Keelback
Also known as:
Blossom Krait, Sri Lanka Blossom Krait, Ceylonese Keelback
Some authorities classify this species in the genus Balanophis.
This adult is a perfectly fine, standard smallish snake. You can see some faint patterning on the body, and some good contrast on the face and neck. Nothing to write home about. I give this snake a 4 out of 10.
But ooh-lah-lah, this baby gets an 8.5 out of 10, at least! This species is mildly venomous, which could perhaps explain the colorful appearance of the baby (but does not explain the non-colorful appearance of the adult).
Online references:
- Rhabdophis ceylonensis account on The Reptile Database
- Balanophis ceylonensis account on iNaturalist
Printed references:
- de Silva, A., Ukuwela, K. 2017. A Naturalist's Guide to the Reptiles of Sri Lanka