Pseudopus apodus thracius
(Obst, 1978)
Vernacular names
English : Sheltopusik
French : Sheltopusik, Orvet des Balkans
Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Anguidae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.
Identification
Adults can reach up to 135 cm in length. Large head with visible ears and eyelids. Large skin fold running alongside each flanks. Coloration is tan to beige-grey or brown, becoming lighter on lower flanks and belly. Juveniles’ head is banded.
Range and habitat
The species occurs in eastern Europe, western and central Asia, from Croatia and Greece to Ukraine and Turkey, east to Kazakhstan. Subspecies found from northern coastal areas of Black Sea to Bulgaria and Greece. Lives in short grasslands, steppes and open woodlands.
Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species seems to be fairly common within its large range. It may suffer locally from collection for trade and habitat loss.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known
Observation
