Ophiofauna Diversity of Dhaltangarh Forest of Odisha, India

A small study was undertaken in Dhaltangarh forest to explore snake diversity. Studies were conducted by systematic observation, catching by snake-stick & photographic capture. The study yielded 19 snake species including a huge Burmese python species. Out of the total snakes, 5 were found to be venomous, one was mildly venomous and rest 13 were non-venomous. It was concluded that this forest is rich in snakes belonging to Colubrid family. It was also revealed that mimicry is the main cause of the death of some non-venomous snakes in this forest.