SHIELDTAIL SNAKE

any of more than 40 species of burrowing, southern Asian snakes of the family Uropeltidae. Shieldtail snakes are harmless, short (usually less than 30 cm, or 12 inches, long), and small-eyed. They often have pointed snouts, and a number have tails ending in a flat, disklike shield. Many species are brightly coloured; some are black but highly iridescent. Most feed on earthworms. The genera Cylindrophis (pipe snakes) and Anomochilus, both possessing remnants of the pelvic girdle, are sometimes placed in the family Aniliidae with the South American Anilius. Pipe snakes are often found in rice fields; when molested, the individual hides its head under its coiled body and raises its tail, which simulates a more dangerous head.