Xenophidion

Xenophidion is a genus of small, venomous snakes in the family Colubridae, native to the Americas. The genus was first described by American herpetologist Edward Drinker Cope in 1862. Xenophidion species are characterized by their slender bodies, smooth scales, and lack of a distinct neck. They are typically found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts, and are often encountered in burrows or under rocks.

The genus Xenophidion currently includes three recognized species: Xenophidion acanthognathum, Xenophidion guentheri, and Xenophidion naevium. Xenophidion acanthognathum is found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, while Xenophidion guentheri is native to Central and South America. Xenophidion naevium is found in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Xenophidion species are generally shy and reclusive, and they primarily feed on small vertebrates such as lizards and rodents. They are venomous, but their bites are typically not considered life-threatening to humans. However, they should be handled with caution, as their venom can cause localized pain and swelling.

The conservation status of Xenophidion species varies. Xenophidion acanthognathum is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, while Xenophidion guentheri and Xenophidion naevium are listed as Data Deficient. The primary threats to these species are habitat loss and degradation due to human activities such as agriculture and urbanization.