Yellow-throated Black Mambo: a new snake

This post reports the first ever sighting of a new species of snake Regmombasanegro luteocollis.  Only one specimen has been found thus far. 
 It was originally located on 7 March 2011 in the middle of a rural road.  This was possibly a result of its natural habitat (believed to be old McDonalds' wrappers) being disturbed by Clean Up Australia day activities on the previous few days.

Unlike the close related Mambas (genus Dendroaspis), which are relatively fast moving, this specimen took two days to travel 2m to the hard shoulder. It is, however, relatively strong: the second image shows that it has dragged bark from a Brittle Gum (Eucalyptus mannifera) and positioned it under foliage from a nearby Silver wattle (Acacia dealbata).
 Little is known of the biology of the species. 

It would appear that it is very tolerant of high temperatures.  This is indicted by the thickness and texture of the integument and insulated nature of the tongue.  Assessing its location and its pose (which has been held more or less statically for 4 days) it is believed that it dines on road-kill of which there is a fair supply in this area. 

As only one specimen has been located it is difficult to comment on breeding habits.  However this appears to be a tophose creature and thus should perform well with a lowhose individual.

Comments

Denis Wilson said…
Good fun post, Martin.
I went off to find a Latin dictionary, but my old ones do not include words for "hydraulic hose" and "radiator".
But Reg Mombasa would be pleased with your Taxonomic appellation.
Cheers
Denis
13 March 2011 at 11:01:00 GMT+11
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