About Sanzinia madagascariensis (Duméril & Bibron, 1844)
Adults of Sanzinia madagascariensis average 122–152 cm (4–5 feet) in length, and specimens measuring 183–213 cm (6–7 feet) are not uncommon. This species has thermoreceptive pits between its labial scales, and females grow larger than males. It is greenish in color, and is found on the eastern side of Madagascar. Sanzinia madagascariensis is endemic to Madagascar, and its given type locality is simply "Madagascar". It favors living in trees and shrubs located near streams, rivers, ponds, and swamps. This species is ovoviviparous. Females give birth to up to 12 young at a time, each newborn measures around 38 cm (15 inches) in length. When females become gravid, their skin color darkens. This darkening is an adaptation that allows increased heat absorption for the developing young. After giving birth, the female's skin color returns to normal as soon as she sheds her skin next. Newborn neonates are bright red; this coloration may warn predators to stay away, while also providing camouflage among brightly colored treetop flowers.
