486 MR. E. SYMONDS ON SOUTH-AFRICAN SNAKES. [June 7, 



horn of the Nos. 1 & 2 types that T have seen measured 14 inches 

 in length, measured in the manner (already explained) that we 

 measure this type, and this means a smaller horn than a 12' 5 horn 

 of the No. 3 type measured as we measure these. 



However large the horn of the No. 3 type, it can be readily taken 

 off its core, which is of the shape figured by Milne-Edwards ; how- 

 ever small the horns of a No. 2 type, it is always impossible, owing 

 to the twist in the cores, to get the horns off them. 



The peculiar shape of what I suppose to be the male horns is 

 just what one would expect to be developed in males butting 

 together ; the females do not require to fight, and hence the total 

 absence of that great thickening to the front and close approach 

 which the horns of the male show at that precise point where the 

 shock of battle has to be sustained. 



As to the pelage, I cannot yet be certain ; the black or blackish 

 heads are constant, from kids to the largest males, and (selon moi) 

 females ; but the body in some is a yellow dun, much as in Milne- 

 Edwards's plate, while in others it is a deep dusky reddish brown, 

 with a great deal of black intermingled, and some intermediate 

 shades occur. These differences are not, I think, due either to age 

 or sex, but are, I believe, seasonal. 



2. Notes on some Species of South-African Snakes. By 

 Edmond Symonds, of Kroonstad, Orange Free State. 

 (Communicated by J. II. Gurney.) 



[Eeceived April 30, 1SS7.] 



[The following notes were accompanied by specimens of the Snakes 

 referred to, which have been kindly identified for me by Dr. Giinther. 

 With one exception, they were all collected in the vicinity of Kroon- 

 stad, where Mr. Symonds resides. — J. H. G.] 



1. CORONELLA CANA. 



Length from head to end of tail 4 feet 6 inches ; from vent to 

 tail 8 inches. 



Tail rather short and stumpy. 



Iris brown ; pupil circular. 



Teeth. — Lower jaw a sinole row on each side, about 12 ; upper 

 jaw a double row on each side, about 8 ; no fangs posterior or 

 anterior. 



Colour very dark brown, on the back almost black, sides rather 

 lighter, belly a glossy slaty black. 



Habits. — As a rule rather sluggish until thoroughly roused and 

 irritated, when it strikes rapidly, but will always get away if possible ; 

 does not dilate the neck. Common near Kroonstad, but not so common 

 as the copper-coloured variety ; one I had in a cage for some time 

 ate frogs. 



