Common rough-sided snake

Aspidura trachyprocta, commonly known as the common rough-sided snake, is a small non-venomous colubrid that is endemic to Sri Lanka. It is mainly found in the central highlands, ranging from mid-elevation areas to montane habitats between about 800–2100 m. This species is quite commonly encountered in places such as Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains, Namunukula, and the Kandy region. It prefers cool, moist environments and is typically associated with forested areas as well as nearby agricultural lands.

This snake has a cylindrical body with an indistinct head, making it well adapted for a burrowing lifestyle. Its colour varies from dark brown to reddish brown, usually with faint side stripes and rows of small dark spots along the back, while the underside ranges from yellowish to heavily marked with black. It is mostly found hidden under leaf litter, humus, and rotting logs, where it likely feeds on small invertebrates. The species lays about 4–12 eggs per clutch, and like many other burrowing snakes, it remains secretive and rarely seen unless disturbed.