Lycodon – Wolf snakes

A fascinating group of non-venomous snakes found across Asia and parts of the Middle East. They get their nickname from their unusual teeth: the front teeth in their upper jaw are enlarged and slightly hooked, resembling the fangs of a wolf. These special teeth help them grip slippery prey like lizards and geckos, which are their favorite meals. Wolf snakes are harmless to humans, but their appearance and behavior sometimes cause confusion, since their bold markings can resemble venomous snakes such as kraits. This mimicry is actually a survival advantage, since predators may avoid them out of caution.

One of the most striking things about wolf snakes is their coloration. Many species have dramatic black or dark brown bodies with bright white or yellow crossbands, giving them a bold and high-contrast look. Some species, however, are more uniform in color, blending into their surroundings. Unlike some snakes that grow very large, wolf snakes are generally modest in size, usually between two to four feet long, though a few can be longer. They are slender, quick-moving, and mostly nocturnal, often venturing into human homes at night in search of geckos—making them unexpected, but harmless, house visitors.

Another cool fact about wolf snakes is their adaptability. They can live in forests, farmlands, rocky areas, and even urban neighborhoods. Because they are excellent climbers, it’s not unusual to see them navigating walls, ceilings, or tree branches at night. Their restless nature and tendency to thrash around when caught make them seem more aggressive than they really are. In truth, they rely on bluff and wriggling rather than biting, and even if they do bite, they are not dangerous to humans. Their scientific name, Lycodon, literally means “wolf tooth,” a nod to their unusual dental structure that makes them unique among colubrid snakes.