Cat snake - a description of where it lives, features

We consider a cat snake, which got its name due to specific elongated pupils. These members of the family feed preferably on lizards, but can hunt for larger creatures. A feature of reptiles is the ability to examine minks and catch reptiles from there. Snakes live in the mountains, prefer rocky areas and rare vegetation. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, we will consider their features in order.

Description

1. These snakes are not considered to be large-sized species. They grow up to 80 cm in length (maximum value). However, in the natural environment there are representatives of the family much less than the declared parameters.
2. The case is thin and taut, no sloppy seals. The tail occupies about ¼ section of the total length of the individual. The head is drawn from the neck and stands out perfectly. There are protective shields on it. Eyes with vertical pupils, like a cat's family. The mouth is equipped with furrowed teeth.
3. The case in the upper section is pigmented in yellow, may be gray or pinkish. Black marks, large and beautiful, stand out on the back, allowing to distinguish this variety from the rest. The spots can be brown.
4. The lateral parts have small spots and oblong stripes, which are located across. Some representatives of reptiles of this family have a light pattern on the sides, but it may not be.
5. The head is practically not pigmented in the upper part, it is monophonic. From the edges of the eyes to the corners of the oral cavity, a strip of black tone extends. The abdominal section is brightened, with spots and marks. The irises are yellow or pink.

Habitat

1. This representative of reptiles is considered a relative of the snake. Accordingly, the habitat of these individuals partially coincides. They are common in the Caucasus, Asia Minor, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
2. Reptiles prefer to settle in the mountains, can live on slopes with sparse vegetation. Snakes need room for maneuver and relative void. They are found in semi-steppe stripes and near forests.
3. Representatives of the family can climb to a height of 2 km. from sea level. Especially courageous individuals settle next to people, occupying territories on the outskirts of settlements and cities. Some live in attics, in garden areas and vineyards.
4. The variety of reptiles in question is considered an excellent slider. It can climb a tall tree or rock, found on weighty slopes and walls. Due to its low weight, the snake does not fall even in the most steep areas.

Nutrition

1. Mostly, the basis of the diet of the considered individuals includes various lizards. This snake swiftly attacks the victim, squeezing it with its jaws. After which the reptile wraps around prey.
2. Thus, the presented snakes try to keep the victim's jerks, and not strangle her. This happens until the lizard dies from exposure to the poison. The latter is located in the recesses of the front teeth of a cat snake. The fangs themselves are located deep in the mouth.
3. Due to such a characteristic feature of this individual, it is necessary to open the mouth very widely in order to hit the victim. Only in this case, the snake is able to completely pierce the poisonous fangs into the body of the prey. The poison acts on the lizard for several minutes.
4. An interesting fact is that the reptiles in question often go hunting at night. Snakes begin to examine all the holes, and if someone is found, they are killed by sleeping.
5. These snakes got their name due to the silent creeping up to prey. In addition, reptiles have a vertical pupil shape, like a cat. Therefore, the activity of the snake is shown at night. In addition, chicks are included in the diet of cat snakes. Often such individuals destroy bird nests.

Breeding

1. Presented reptiles reproduce by laying eggs. One female in the clutch can have a maximum of 9 pieces. As soon as young growth is born, it almost immediately begins to eat, like adults, only small lizards.
2. As for the habitat of these reptiles, in our country, such snakes are extremely rare. For the same reason, reptiles are listed in the Red Book.

A cat snake is rightfully considered one of the most unusual snakes. Her habits and eyes can be compared to a cat. The reptile behaves silently during the hunt. In addition, she is looking for victims at night. Before the attack, she turns into a ball and quickly rushes to the prey.