Ornate Flying Snake: Facts, Range, Venom

Infographic Published : Dec 21, 2022 Updated : Dec 21, 2022

All you need to know about this snake capable of gliding flight

What is the ornate flying snake's range?

All over India, Western Ghats (south Maharashtra to Kerala and Tamil Nadu), parts of Eastern Ghats to the whole of the east (Odisha and West Bengal) and all Northeastern states. Also, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, and China.

Does the ornate flying snake really fly?

These snakes don’t really “fly” but glide through the air by flattening their body and increasing wind resistance. They first sway to gather lift and buoyancy, and can glide up to 100 m. They have no appendages to aid flight. Their lightweight, parachute-like belly absorbs shock on landing.

Is ornate flying snake venomous?

This snake’s venom subdues small prey but is not dangerous to humans.

About the contributors

Anirudh Nair

is a staff writer with Roundglass Sustain. He enjoys walking through the wilderness and is constantly in awe of wild nature.

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Diviya Mehra

is a graphic designer. She was the former art director of National Geographic Traveller. Her love for animals, travel and design has shaped her career through the years.