Costa Rica Species
Leptodeira septentrionalis
AnimaliaIUCN LCApproved Recent Sighting

Leptodeira septentrionalis

Cat-eyed Snake

Kennicott, 1859

Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Medium-sized snake with large eyes and elliptical vertical pupils, reminiscent of a cat. It features a pattern of dark dorsal blotches on a beige or light brown background.

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Julia Trouin

Last modified by

Julia Trouin

Taxonomy

PhylumChordata
ClassReptilia
OrderSquamata
FamilyDipsadidae
GenusLeptodeira
Taxonomic AuthorityKennicott, 1859

Ecology & Status

Origin

Native

Population Trend

Stable

Breeding Season

Year Round

Trophic Role

Carnivore

Recent Sightings

Yes

Habitat Summary Multi-lang

Highly adaptable, found in a wide range of habitats, from humid and dry forests to peri-urban zones and agricultural areas.

Behaviour Multi-lang

Mainly nocturnal; often observed near water bodies searching for amphibians.

Social Activity Multi-lang

Solitary; very active hunting habits during the night.

Feeding Guild Multi-lang

Active predator; actively searches for prey on the ground or low branches.

Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang

Carnivore; specialist in preying on amphibian eggs and tadpoles.

Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang

Oviparous; females deposit their eggs in protected cavities or under logs.

Physical Measures

Length (cm)

60.0 - 100.0 cm

Weight (Grams)

50 g - 200 g

Offspring per cycle4 - 12
Sexual DimorphismYes

Lifespan

Sexual Maturity

1 - 2 Years

Gestation / Incubation

45 - 60

Lifespan Estimated
Males--
Females--

Sexual Dimorphism

Males Multi-lang

Males usually have longer and thinner tails.

Females Multi-lang

Females are more corpulent and heavy, ideal for egg production.

Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang

Vertical pupil: Adaptation for effective night vision, allowing it to hunt efficiently in dim light.

Main Threats Multi-lang

Mainly roadkill and human persecution due to misconceptions about its danger.

Interesting Facts Multi-lang

Possesses a mild venom used to immobilize small prey, but it is harmless to humans.