Wallophis

Wallophis is a genus in the family Colubridae, the largest and most widespread family of snakes, which contains the majority of non-venomous and mildly rear-fanged species worldwide. The genus is small, holding only the Indian smooth snake (Wallophis brachyura), a species native to the Indian subcontinent. Like many lesser-known colubrids, it was historically shuffled among related genera before being recognized on its own, which is common as taxonomists refine the family using modern genetic work.

Members of this genus are slender, modestly sized ground snakes with smooth body scales and the typical colubrid build: a clearly defined head, round pupils, and a tapering tail. As with most small colubrids in the region, they are terrestrial and secretive, favoring scrub, dry country, and disturbed ground where they can hunt and shelter under cover. In general terms you would recognize one as an unremarkable, smooth-scaled snake rather than a thick-bodied or strongly patterned one.

This is a harmless, non-venomous group. Indian smooth snakes pose no medical threat to people and are not considered dangerous. Small colubrids like these feed on prey such as insects, lizards, and other small animals, and most lay eggs. As a general rule, leave any wild snake alone and let it move off on its own; if anyone is ever bitten by a snake they cannot confidently identify, treat it as a medical matter and seek care, contacting US Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or local emergency services.