Cerberus rynchops

The Andaman Dog-faced Water Snake (Cerberus rynchops) is a mildly venomous, rear-fanged aquatic snake found in the mangroves, tidal rivers, and coastal wetlands of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It belongs to the Homalopsidae family and is known for its distinctive broad snout, which gives it a dog-like appearance.

This species is nocturnal and highly adapted to aquatic life, often seen hunting fish, eels, and crustaceans in shallow waters. It is capable of sidewinding movement on mudflats, a rare behavior among snakes. Despite its venomous nature, it poses little threat to humans, as its venom is primarily used for subduing prey rather than defense.

The Andaman Dog-faced Water Snake is viviparous, giving birth to live young, with litter sizes ranging from 6 to 30 offspring. Though common in its habitat, habitat destruction and pollution threaten its populations. Conservation efforts are needed to preserve mangrove ecosystems, ensuring the survival of this unique aquatic predator.