Egg-eating Snake

D. scabra grows to a total length (tail included) of 40–46 inches (100–120 cm), and has almost toothless jaws. Dorsally, it has a series of rhomboidal dark brown spots on a lighter background. There is an alternating series of brown spots on each side and a distinct V-shaped mark at the back of the neck. Ventrally it is yellowish, either uniform or with dark dots.

D. scabra can be found in a variety of habitats, at altitudes from sea level to 2,600 m (8,500 ft). It is not found in closed-canopy forests nor in true deserts, but does inhabit most ecosystems between these extremes.

The rhombic egg eater is nocturnal. Although mainly terrestrial, it is a good climber and is known to scale rock outcroppings and climb trees to raid birds' nests.