Colubridae

Colubridae, commonly known as colubrids, is the largest family of snakes, comprising 249 genera. Fossil evidence dates back to the Late Eocene, with colubrids found on every continent except Antarctica. This diverse group of snakes exhibits various body styles, colors, and patterns, thriving in habitats like aquatic, terrestrial, and arboreal environments.

Most colubrids are harmless and not venomous, though a few, such as certain species of Boiga and the South African boomslang, can pose dangers with their bites. Some colubrids are opisthoglyphous (rear-fanged) and require chewing to inject venom, while others may be proteroglyphous (front-fanged).

Reproduction varies, with most species being oviparous, while some, particularly in the Natricinae and Colubrinae subfamilies, are viviparous. Key characteristics include limbless bodies, reduced left lungs, and unique dental structures.