title: Cryptophis boschmai
text: # Cryptophis boschmai
  
  Cryptophis boschmai, also known commonly as the Carpentaria snake or the Carpentaria whip snake, is a species of venomous snake in the family Elapidae. The species is native to Australia and New Guinea.
  
  ## Etymology
  
  The specific epithet boschmai honours Dutch zoologist Hilbrand Boschma.
  
  ## Description
  
  The colouration of C. boschmai is tan to dark brown on the upper body, with a pale belly. It grows to a total length (including tail) of about 45 centimetres (18 in).
  
  ## Behaviour
  
  C. boschmai is terrestrial and nocturnal, sheltering during the day under bark, logs, and leaf litter.
  
  ## Diet
  
  C. boschmai preys upon small lizards.
  
  ## Reproduction
  
  The species C. boschmai is viviparous, with an average litter size of eight.
  
  ## Geographic range and habitat
  
  The distribution of C. boschmai in Australia extends from the northern part of the Cape York Peninsula, covering eastern Queensland as far south as the border with New South Wales, where it inhabits dry forests, woodlands, shrubland, and grasslands. The type locality is Merauke in southern New Guinea.
  
  