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Show 486 MR. E. SYMONDS ON SOUTH-AFRICAN SNAKES. [June 7, horn of the Nos. 1 & 2 types that I have seen measured 14 inches in length, measured in the manner (already explained) that we measure this type, and this means a smaller horn than a 12*5 horn of the No. 3 type measured as we measure these. However large the horn of the No. 3 type, it can be readily taken off its core, which is of the shape figured by Milne-Edwards; however small the horns of a No. 2 type, it is always impossible, owing to the twist in the cores, to get the horns off them. The peculiar shape of what I suppose to be the male horns is just what one would expect to be developed in males butting together ; the females do not require to fight, and hence the total absence of that great thickening to the front and close approach which the horns of the male show at that precise point where the shock of battle has to be sustained. As to the pelage, I cannot yet be certain; the black or blackish heads are constant, from kids to the largest males, and (selon moi) females ; but the body in some is a yellow dun, much as in Milne- Edwards's plate, while in others it is a deep dusky reddish brown, with a great deal of black intermingled, and some intermediate shades occur. These differences are not, I think, due either to age or sex, but are, I believe, seasonal. 2. Notes on some Species of South-African Snakes. By E D M O N D S Y M O N D S , of Kroonstad, Orange Free State. (Communicated by J. H. G U R N E Y .) [Received April 30, 1887.] [The following notes were accompanied by specimens of the Snakes referred to, which have been kindly identified for me by Dr. Giinther. With one exception, they were all collected in the vicinity of Kroonstad, where Mr. Symonds resides.-J. H. G.] 1. CORONELLA CANA. Length from head to end of tail 4 feet 6 inches; from vent to tail 8 inches. Tail rather short and stumpy. Iris brown ; pupil circular. Teeth.-Lower jaw a single row on each side, about 12 ; upper jaw a double row on each side, about 8 ; no fangs posterior or anterior. Colour very dark brown, on the back almost black, sides rather lighter, belly a glossy slaty black. Habits.-As a rule rather sluggish until thoroughly roused and irritated, when it strikes rapidly, but will always get away if possible ; does not dilate the neck. Common near Kroonstad, but not so common as the copper-coloured variety ; one I had in a cage for some time ate frogs. |
