12 CROTALOPHORUS. 



series. The third alternating with the second and the dorsal series, 

 on the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth rows of scales. The latter 

 series is dusky and obsolete; the others are uniform and distinctly 

 black. 



The shape of the blotches is subjected to some variation according 

 to individuals. Generally subcircular or slightly oblong, they become 

 sometimes a transversely elongated quadrangle, three times as long as 

 wide. Their shape varies according to the region of the body on 

 which they are found. On the anterior third they are subquadran- 

 gular, anteriorly and posteriorly emarginated ; on the middle region 

 they elongate, and toward the posterior third become nearly circular. 

 Backward of the anus the five or six blotches of that region extend on the 

 sides, without, however, meeting on the lower surface. The blotches of 

 the first lateral row are subquadrangular and a little smaller than those 

 of the second and third rows; the blotches of the second row being 

 transversely oblong and largest on the middle region of the body. 

 Side of the head purplish brown. A narrow distinct white line from 

 the lowest part of the orbit passing obliquely backward to the angle 

 of the mouth. Above and continuous with that white line a deep 

 chestnut-brown vitta is observed, of the same length but broader and 

 lined above with a narrow dull yellowish margin. Two undulated 

 dark-brown vittte extend from the vertex to the first dorsal blotch 

 and confluent with it. A double crescentic blotch is observed on the 

 frontal scutellae leaving a transversal fulvous band across the head 

 between the orbits. The color underneath is reddish yellow, mar- 

 morated with brownish black blotches and minute dots. 



The scales are elongated, carinated, and acute posteriorly. Those 

 of the lateral row are slightly carinated also, but narrower than in C. 

 consors, and more acute posteriorly. 



2. Crotalopliorus consors, B. & G. — Twenty-five rows of dor- 

 sal scales, all carinated except the two first rows on either side. Seven series 

 of blotches, one dorsal and three on each side, all very small. A yellowish 

 white line passing from behind the nostril below and behind the eye. 



