Hispaniolan Cat-eyed Snakes occur in many colors and patterns.
I’m revisiting this species hoping that somewhere in the world, someone has a breeding pair and will offer additional information on this Hispaniolan beauty.

Hypsirhyncus ferox, the Hispaniolan Cat-eyed or Hog-nosed Snake, is an interesting little dipsadine species about which very little is written. It is occasionally called the Haitian Hog-nosed Racer. All common names are well deserved, this snake having elliptical pupils, a flattened slightly upturned rostrum, and quickly and agilely fleeing any undue disturbances.

This little snake occurs in several colors that vary from dark gray to red with various browns and pinks between the 2. The snake may lack dorsal and lateral patterning or be heavily patterned, often moreso dorsally than laterally, but may also have light or dark lateral striping.

Long a single species found in both Hispaniolan countries and having 3 subspecies, recently it has been revisited by geneticists and (surprise, surprise!) has now been split into 2 species, one of which has 2 ssp. Adult size is about 15 inches and prey includes lizards and frogs. Cat-eyed Snakes can move agilely and quickly, rapidly disappearing when disturbed, escaping into or benearh underbrush or other readily available cover.

Over the years I have maintained a few as captive and found them to be secretive but hardy, readily feeding on anoles. Other than the fact that this is an oviparous snake, little is known about its breeding methodology.

This snake was not often offered even in the heyday of herp importing. Should you see them offered today and choose to have a small, easily maintained oddity, act quickly. And please let me know if there are extras. I’m looking too.