A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Insights into the Mating Behavior of the Malabar Pit Viper (Craspedocephalus malabaricus) from the Central Western Ghats
Authors: Correa, Joel; Chikkanarayanaswamy, Pavan; Hasyagar, Vivek; Kumar, Vijay
Publication year: 2026
Journal: National Academy Science Letters
ISSN: 0250-541X
eISSN: 2250-1754
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40009-026-01959-5
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: No Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : Partially Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1007/s40009-026-01959-5
Here, we present a commentary on the mating behavior of the Malabar Pit Viper Craspedocephalus malabaricus, an endemic species to the Western Ghats. Mating behavior was observed on three different occasions, with most rituals consistent with those of the family Viperidae. Notably, we documented a female dragging a male during coitus, a behavior rarely recorded in arboreal snakes. We also shed light on the species’ mating season, which occurs primarily during the peak monsoon season.
Funding information in the publication:
The authors did not receive any support from any organization for the submitted work.
