Reptiles of Kanneliya

36 species of snakes, including 17 endemic forms, belonging to six families have been recorded from kannaliya. Within the reserve, a higher diversity of reptile fauna is found in the middle kannaliya areas. 
Those included Blind snakes, Shield tailed snakes, Python and Boas, Cobras, Vipers and many more. Dumutu Kanaulla, , Pimbura, Pala polanga Thith Polanga, Kunakatuwa and especial of them Depath naya.

Several species of colubrids are usually encountered in the Narangas Ella, Anagimal Ella and Kabbale kanda nature trails, the grebe whip snake being the most common snake. Other common species includes Bonze-back snakes and rough-side snakes.

Checklist of snakes recorded from KannaliyaBlind snakes (Family Typhlopidae)Ramphotyphlops braminus - common blind snake - Dumutu kanaulla

Shield-tailed snakes (Family Uropeltidae)Cylindrophis maculata Pipe snake Depath nayaRhinophis blythii Blyth’s earth snake GomarathudullaUropeltis melanogaster Gray’s earth snake kaluwakatulla

Python and Boas (Family Boidae)Python molurus Indian python Pimbura

Cobras, Kraits & coral snakes (Family Elapidae)Bungarus ceylonicus Sri Lankan krait Mudu karawalaNaja naja Indian cobra Naya

Vipers & Pit vipers (Family Viperidae)Daboia russelii Russell’s viper Tith polongaHypnale hypnale Merrem’s hump-nosed kunakatuwaviper PolonthelissaHypnale nepa Millard’s hump-nosed Mukalan thelissviperTrimeresurus trigonocephala Green pit viper Pala polonga

     

snake

Some people think of snakes as uniformly dangerous, while others think of them as exotic, interesting pets. While not all snakes are dangerous, you should consider carefully whether you can really handle having one as a pet. Here are some facts about snakes to help you make your decision.

FACT 1: Snakes are not easy to care for. Snakes need a reptile cage heated by a thermostat and ultraviolet lamps. They are cold-blooded animals, so temperature control is extremely important for their health. In addition to their environmental needs, they will have to be fed regularly using a hemostat. Finally, snakes can be large or aggressive, so you will need to use a snake hook to move them when you clean out their cage. These snake supplies may be expensive, especially food, so think carefully about whether you can afford to take proper care of a snake.

FACT 2: Snakes are 100% carnivorous. They do not eat anything other than small animals. You will either have to feed them live mice, fish, and insects or buy frozen varieties of these animals for them. If the idea of feeding one live animal to another bothers you, then snake ownership is not for you.

FACT 3: Snakes are prone to mites. These vermin are a nuisance and can make your snake uncomfortable or unhealthy. You may need the help of your veterinarian in order to protect your snake from mite infestation, which means more time and money spent taking care of the snake.

Do these facts mean you should not purchase a snake? Not necessarily. It depends upon whether you have the time and money to purchase snake supplies, the stomach to feed the snake what it needs, and the dedication to take care of it properly should it become sick or uncomfortable. As with any pet, snake ownership is a large responsibility, and it is not fair to the snake to bring it into your home if you are not willing to meet these responsibilities.
If, however, the idea of having an exotic pet appeals to you, you have the resources to make sure the snake is well cared for, and you believe you could love a snake even though it will not return your affections, there is no reason you should not purchase one. Different breeds have somewhat different needs, so make sure to do your research before adopting a particular type of snake. Above all, don't forget to enjoy your snake as you take care of him