Snake species #54 for Otorongo

Juvenile Phrynonax polylepis resting at night on a leaf, looking suspiciously like a pile of feces

Phrynonax polylepis, has many common names.

“Puffing bird snake”

“Northeastern puffing snake”

“Common bird eating snake”

Previously it was known as Pseustes poecilonotus but was renamed not too long ago.

They are known as “puffing snakes” due to their habit of inflating their throats to look bigger and hissing to give off an exaggerated impression of aggressiveness and danger.

This is the first occasion we are registering this species in our area. They look strikingly similar to whip snakes or “sipo” at a quick glance. It is possible we have observed previously but failed to ID as this species due to not having it in hand.

In these two images, you can observe a juvenile “puffing” snake resting on a leaf at night.

The similarity of colors to bird feces is a cryptic defense against predation. If it remains still, it has a good chance at avoiding the gaze of nocturnal predators.

Different angle of Phrynonax polylepis, resting on a leaf

This individual was found on a nocturnal excursion with a herping group on the 22nd of March 2026 with Guides Jhon Armas and Nilo Sinarahua. The clients were very excited to participate!

Make sure to contact us for all of your herping needs near Iquitos Peru!