Tropidophis greenwayi


Tropidophis greenwayi is a nonvenomous dwarf boa species endemic to the Caicos Islands. Two subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.

Etymology

The specific name, greenwayi, is in honor of American ornithologist James Cowan Greenway.

Description

Adults of T. greenwayi reach maturity at a total length of in males and in females. The maximum total length is.

Geographic range

Tropidophis greenwayi is found in the West Indies in the Caicos Islands, particularly on the islands of Ambergris Cay, Long Cay, Middle Caicos, Middleton Cay, North Caicos, South Caicos, and probably also on Providenciales. The type locality given is "Ambergris Cay, Caicos Islands, Bahamas".

Habitat

Tropidophis greenwayi occurs in the rocky limestone areas of the cays.

Conservation

Because of its restricted island distribution, T. greenway is susceptible to extirpation. Unless wildlife protection laws are enforced, the relatively secretive nature of this snake may be its only protection against extinction.

Feeding

The diet of T. greenwayi consists mainly of anoles and geckos.

Subspecies