Trinidad’s Horsewhip snake: Separating fact from folklore.

The legend of the Horsewhip snake (Oxybelis rutherfordi): Myth vs reality in Trinidad and Tobago

The Brown Vine Snake, locally known as the “Horsewhip” (Oxybelis rutherfordi), is a fascinating yet misunderstood reptile native to Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and French Guiana. Despite its harmless nature, this slender, arboreal snake has been the subject of persistent myths—most notably the false belief that it targets pregnant women.

This article explores the scientific facts, historical context, and cultural misconceptions surrounding the Horsewhip snake while highlighting its ecological role and recent taxonomic reclassification.

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The myth: Does the Horsewhip snake attack pregnant women?

One of the most enduring legends in Trinidad and Tobago is that the Horsewhip snake deliberately seeks out pregnant women to “whip” them with its tail or attack their unborn children. This myth has caused unnecessary fear and persecution of the species.

Reality: A harmless predator

Scientific research confirms that Oxybelis rutherfordi is non-venomous and poses no threat to humans. These snakes are rear-fanged (opisthoglyphous), meaning their mild venom is adapted for subduing small prey—not harming people. Their diet consists primarily of:

Lizards (especially anoles, locally called “24-hour lizards“)
Frogs
Occasionally small birds and insects

They are non-aggressive and will only bite if severely provoked. When threatened, they may gape their mouths to expose a dark interior as a warning display but prefer to flee rather than fight.

Taxonomy and scientific discovery

For years, the Trinidadian horsewhip was misclassified as Oxybelis aeneus (the Neotropical Brown Vine Snake). However, in 2020, a team of herpetologists led by Dr Robert C Jadin conducted a comprehensive phylogenetic study, revealing that the Trinidad and Tobago population was a distinct species.

Naming the species: Oxybelis rutherfordi

The snake was renamed Oxybelis rutherfordi in honour of Mike G Rutherford, the former curator of the University of the West Indies Zoology Museum (UWIZM), who collected the holotype specimen in 2018 at the William Beebe Tropical Research Station (Simla) in Arima Valley, Trinidad.

Key taxonomic findings

Genetic divergence from Oxybelis aeneus
Morphological differences in scale patterns and body structure
Distribution: Found in Trinidad, Tobago, Venezuela (including Margarita Island), and French Guiana

Behaviour and ecology

The Horsewhip snake is a diurnal, arboreal hunter, perfectly adapted to life in trees and shrubs. Its slender body and greenish-brown coloration allow it to blend seamlessly with vines, earning it the local name “Horsewhip”.

Hunting strategy

Ambush predator: Waits motionless for lizards or frogs to approach.

Mild venom: Immobilises prey via grooved rear fangs.

Swallowing mechanism: Expands its jaws to consume prey whole, head-first.

Ecological importance

By controlling anole lizard populations, the Horsewhip snake helps maintain ecological balance, preventing overpopulation that could disrupt insect populations (including pollinators).

Debunking other myths

Beyond the false belief about pregnant women, other myths include:

“They whip people with their tails” (They do not lash out like a whip).

“They are highly venomous” (Their venom is ineffective on humans).

“They chase humans” (They are shy and avoid confrontation).

Conservation and cultural significance

Despite being harmless, superstitions have led to unnecessary killings of these snakes. Education is key to changing perceptions.

How to safely coexist with Horsewhip snakes

Do not handle them unnecessarily.

Observe from a distance—they help control pest species.

If found indoors, gently guide them outside using a long stick.

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Conclusion

The Horsewhip snake (Oxybelis rutherfordi) is a harmless, ecologically vital reptile whose reputation has been marred by myths and misinformation. Scientific research has not only corrected its classification but also dispelled fears about its behaviour. By understanding its true nature, we can appreciate its role in Trinidad and Tobago’s biodiversity and ensure its conservation for future generations.

Further reading & references