Puffing snake

Phrynonax poecilonotus, a nonvenomous snake from the Colubridae family, is native to the New World. It is recognized by various names: "dos cocorite" in Trinidad and Tobago, "papa-ovo" in Brazil, and "puffing snake" or "bird snake" in English.

This species' habitat ranges from Mexico through Central America, extending to northern and central South America, including Trinidad and Tobago. Its diet is diverse, predominantly consisting of small terrestrial animals. It is particularly known for its fondness for bird eggs, a trait reflected in some of its common names.

Phrynonax poecilonotus typically exhibits a consistent coloration pattern. Its dorsal side is darker, while its ventral side is generally a lighter, yellowish hue. Juvenile snakes may display more vibrant colors than adults, occasionally complicating identification. Despite the color variations, their behavior remains largely consistent across different age groups, and they are known to bite when handled.