Lying in Ambush for Nocturnal Frogs

Bibliographic Information

Other Title
  • 野外におけるシマヘビ,アオダイショウ及び,ヤマカガシの捕食行動の観察

Description

The nocturnal activity of Elaphe quadrivirgata, E. climacophora, and Rhabdophis tigrinus hitherto known as diurnal, heliothermic predators, was observed around a breeding pond of the Japanese treefrog, Rhacophorus arboreus. The peak of seasonal nocturnal activity of the snakes largely coincided with that of R. arboreus. Snakes were observed lying motionless on a tree branch, with the anterior part of the body extended and the head directed towards the trunk and/or downward. Often the chin and/or temporal region of the snakes made contact with the surface of the trunk. Predation on R. arboreus by the snakes was directly observed on 10 occasions. These facts suggest that, from the above position, E. quadrivirgata, E. climacophora, and Rhabdophis tigrinus “actively” ambushed Rhacophorus arboreus that used the trees as diel vertical pathways during its breeding season. Possible factors that affect the foraging tactics of the snakes are discussed.

Journal

Details 詳細情報について

  • CRID
    1571980077899016576
  • NII Article ID
    130006915708
  • Data Source
    • CiNii Articles

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