Sri Lankan Flying Snake
Chrysopelea taprobanica
About the Sri Lankan Flying Snake
A slender, mildly venomous snake endemic to Sri Lanka. Its most remarkable feature: it glides through the air. It launches from tree branches, flattens its body into a concave shape, and undulates to control its descent — covering up to 30 meters between trees. This adaptation lets it move through the canopy without ever touching the ground.
Best Months to Visit
Visible year-round in Wilpattu.
Wilpattu Significance
Flying snakes live in Wilpattu's forested areas but are challenging to spot — their arboreal lifestyle and exceptional camouflage keep them hidden. Keep your eyes on the canopy rather than the ground. Their gliding behaviour is rarely witnessed but unforgettable when it happens.
Conservation Status
Least Concern. Endemic to Sri Lanka but relatively common within suitable habitat.
Best Locations in Wilpattu
- Forested areas near villus
- Manikwila
- Mahaweva canopy
Viewing Tips
- 1Keep your eyes on the canopy, not just the ground
- 2Look for movement in branches — they are diurnal and active during the day
- 3A gliding snake is a rare sight — if you see one, consider yourself lucky
- 4Your naturalist can identify likely trees based on prey presence (lizards, tree frogs)
Photography Tips
- A flying snake mid-glide is one of the most difficult wildlife shots in Wilpattu
- If you spot one basking on a branch, use a long telephoto (400mm+)
- Patience may reward you with a gliding shot — watch and wait
Did You Know?
The flying snake does not actually fly — it glides. It launches from a branch, flattens its body to create an aerodynamic concave surface, and undulates side to side to control direction. It can change direction mid-glide and land accurately on a chosen branch.
Ready to see the Sri Lankan Flying Snake in the wild? Book a Wilpattu safari with expert naturalists who know exactly where and when to find them.