Rhinophis phillipsi
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Rhinophis phillipsi faces severe threats from rapid deforestation and agricultural expansion across its extremely limited range in Sri Lanka's wet zone. The species' specialized underground lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to soil disturbance from tea cultivation and urban development. Its restricted distribution to a few remaining forest fragments means that any habitat loss could push local populations toward extinction.
Habitat
This fossorial snake inhabits the leaf litter and upper soil layers of Sri Lanka's tropical wet zone forests, particularly in areas with rich, well-drained soils. It occurs in both primary and secondary forest remnants at elevations typically below 1,000 meters.
