POISON-SNAKES. 



219 



at their points ; a row of triangular spots runs 

 down each side ; a mark somewhat like a V 

 is on the hind head, and between the eyes is 

 a large central dark patch. The species is sub- 

 ject to much variety in colour, from white with 

 black marks, to deep black, in which the marks 

 are visible only in the play of light. It may be 

 readily distinguished from the Common Snake 

 by its zig-zag band, by its darker belly, by its 

 wider head, and in particular by its short and 

 abruptly tapered tail. 



The Viper, as its name imports, is viviparous ; 



VIPER. 



or rather the membrane which invests the egg 

 is so tender, that it is ruptured in the moment 



