Medium-sized snake (n = 1), diurnal and semi-arboreal (Marques et al. 2001). An individual was observed on the ground during the day (12:00 h) in March, next to a small fragment of disturbed forest. Upon detecting the observer’s approach, the snake fled into the forest. Sazima and Haddad (1992) also mention the presence of C. bicarinatus in fragments of disturbed forests. The diet is specialized in anurans, composed mainly of hylids and leptodactylids (Dixon et al. 1993). Reproduction is seasonal, with copulation in early autumn and between 4 – 14 eggs laid at the end of winter (Marques et al. 2009, Pontes and Rocha 2008).

From sea level, from the northern coast of Rio Grande do Sul to Bahia, to a maximum altitude of 1610 m in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). In this study, the maximum altitudinal record was 1730 m, in Baependi, MG. Dixon et al. (1993) cited the species in “Brazil, Rio de Janeiro, Marombe [sic], Itatiaia,” at 1850 m a.s.l.. The Maromba region encompasses altitudes from 500 to 2000 m. Despite several records of this species in elevated areas (above 800 m a.s.l.) (Bérnils 2009), Chironius bicarinatus is thought to occupy predominantly plains (Dixon et al. 1993, Carreira et al. 2005).

Northeast, central-west, southeast and south of Brazil (Bahia, Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul), Argentina, and Uruguay (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). This species inhabits all forest formations and open areas such as pampas, cerrado, restingas (Sazima and Haddad 1992, Dixon et al. 1993, Carreira et al. 2005) and rocky fields.

Medium-size species (n = 1), diurnal and semi-arboreal (Dixon et al. 1993, Marques et al 2015). Five observations of C. brazili were made (one during fieldwork and four outside the sampling period). Three individuals were observed between the stones of a waterfall (10:00 – 15:00 h). A recently road-killed adult male was found during the day (11:00 h) in a forest area. Additionally, we observed an individual at rest, coiled over the vegetation at 1.30 m above the ground during the day (16:30 h). All records occurred near watercourses. Abegg et al. (2016) also mention the occurrence of C. brazili in riparian forests. No data on the diet was obtained from the examined specimen. However, as in the other species of the genus, it is likely that C. brazili preys primarily on anurans, mainly hylids (Dixon et al. 1993). We could observe the following defensive behaviors for C. brazili: head elevation and neck S-coil.

The maximum altitudinal record for the species was at 2030 m a.s.l. at Pico do Inficionado, Catas Altas, MG (Bérnils 2009). In the present study, the maximum altitudinal record was at 1600 m a.s.l., in Baependi, MG.

Central-west, southeast and south of Brazil (Federal District, Goiás, Minas Gerais, São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul) (Hamdan and Fernandes 2015). This species is thought to live in habitats similar to those of C. flavolineatus and inhabits riverine forests and forest borders near open areas (Hamdan and Fernandes 2015).

Figure 4. 

Snakes from the Serra do Papagaio. A Chironius brazili B Apostolepis assimilis C Gomesophis brasiliensis D Philodryas aestiva E Philodryas patagoniensis F Thamnodynastes strigatus G Tomodon dorsatus H Xenodon merremii I Bothrops fonsecai J Bothrops jararaca K Bothrops neuwiedi L Crotalus durissus. Photographs by Mário Sacramento, Frederico de Alcântara Menezes, Arthur Diesel Abegg, and Leonardo Chaves.

A large species (n = 1), with semi-arboreal habits, and diurnal activity (Marques et al. 2001, Marques and Sazima 2004). Both of our records were made in the same place, during the day (12:00 and 12:10 h), in September and October, respectively, indicating that it may be the same individual. On both occasions, the individuals were on the ground, in a forest area. The diet is mainly composed of mammals (Marques et al. 2014), but S. pullatus also feeds on lizards, birds and their eggs, and anurans (Martins and Oliveira 1998, Marques and Sazima 2004, Bernarde and Abe 2006). This species lays five to twelve eggs (Amaral 1930, Marques et al. 2014). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

In Brazil, range spans at minimum of sea level from the coast of Santa Catarina to Bahia to a maximum of 1100 m a.s.l., Brasília, Federal District (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record of this species for Brazil is expanded here by our observations at 1630 m a.s.l.. From the toponyms surveyed, Bérnils (2009) recorded only 8% in areas higher than 800 m a.s.l. and 57% between the range of sea level and 400 m a.s.l.

This species can be found in all Brazilian states, and in Argentina and Paraguay (Wallach et al. 2014). It lives in open formations associated with riparian, dense and seasonal ombrophilous forests (Bérnils 2009).

Species of small size (n = 1), with nocturnal activity and cryptozoic or fossorial habits (Ferrarezzi et al. 2005, Marques et al. 2015). In December, an adult was seen at 07:30 h. moving in an open area. The record occurred in Aiuruoca-MG, near the PESP. The diet is composed of amphisbaenids and other elongate vertebrates (Ferrarezzi et al. 2005). Barbo (2011) mentions two females with four and six vitellogenic follicles in November and March. No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species was found at a minimum of 170 m a.s.l., in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso and maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). In this study, the record occurred outside the park limits at 1100 m a.s.l., in Aiuruoca, MG.

Northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Goiás, Distrito Federal, Minas Gerais, São Paulo and Paraná), southeast Paraguay, northern Argentina, and Bolivia (Bérnils 2009; Wallach et al. 2014). This species is typical of the Cerrado morphoclimatic domain, also occurring in adjacent forested areas (Ferrarezzi et al. 2005).

Species of small size (n = 15), nocturnal, with fossorial habits (Marques et al. 2001). Data on A. zebrinu activity and habitat use are available from sparse records and inferred from ecological attributes of other species of the genus (e.g., Atractus pantostictus and A. reticulatus). The species was considered abundant in the study area and was found in all the sampled vegetation types. The exception was mixed ombrophilous forest, which are located in valleys along water courses and undergo seasonal flooding in the rainy season. This species was often captured in pitfall traps (open area = 7, forest area = 8, pitfall = 8). Seven individuals were found during the day (09:30–18:00 h.), all at rest; three under trunks, three were buried and came up when a tractor revolved the soil, and one was basking. An adult female was observed at 20:00 h. crossing the road in a forest area. This information reinforces the conclusion that this species is nocturnal and a generalist for vegetation use, because it was found in both open and forested areas. Similar to other Atractus species, the diet is composed of annelids (Marques et al. 2001). Of the seven individuals examined, two had earthworms in their stomachs. This species was found in all sampling months at similar numbers. There is no information in the literature regarding reproduction. A female collected in October (SVL = 425 mm; TL = 34 mm) presented four vitellogenic follicles and another female was found in December (SVL = 480 mm; TL = 40 mm) with 12 undeveloped follicles. In June, two young individuals (approx SVL = 200 mm) were found together when a tractor revolved the earth. Passos et al. (2016) observed aggregation of juveniles after parturition in Atractus potschi. As defensive tactics, we observed cloacal discharge and head hiding.

Found at a minimum of 20 m a.s.l. in Itaboraí, RJ and maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitude of the species is expanded here by individuals we observed at 1730 m a.s.l.

South and southeast of Brazil (Santa Catarina, Paraná, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo) (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). The toponyms occupied by this species are concentrated in the coastal mountain ranges of Paraná and São Paulo States: Paranapiacaba, Órgaos, Mantiqueira, and Espinhaço mountain ranges. The species is found in areas with predominantly dense ombrophilous forests, mixed ombrophilous forest, seasonal forest (Bérnils 2009), and high altitude grasslands.

A large species (n = 1), terrestrial (Marques et al. 2015), although there is one record of arboreal substrate (Gallardo et al. 2006). In October, a juvenile was collected at 07:30 h. while crossing an unpaved road in a forested area. Data on daily activity are scarce. In the literature, there are two observations of activity at night, one during twilight, and one during the day (Gallardo et al. 2006, Hartmann and Giasson 2008, Gaiarsa et al. 2013). Although the specimen was found active in the early hours of the day, it is thought that the species is predominantly nocturnal, similar to other Pseudoboine species (Marques 1998, Sawaya et al. 2008). A recently ingested lizard (Ophiodes sp.), swallowed head-first, was found in the digestive tract of this specimen. Previous studies indicate this species is a generalist, feeding primarily on snakes, but also birds, small mammals, anurans, and lizards (Lema et al. 1983, Carreira 2002, Gallardo et al. 2006, Hartmann and Giasson 2008, Gaiarsa et al. 2013). This is the first record of an Ophiodes as prey for B. maculata. No reproductive data were obtained from the examined specimen. However, the species is known to lay from four to 15 eggs (Sawaya et al. 2008). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

Species records indicate a minimum of sea level in Rio Grande do Sul and maximum of 1240 m a.s.l. in Serra do Salitre, MG (Bérnils 2009). In Brazil, the maximum altitudinal record of the species is for the study area (at 1600 m a.s.l.). Observations at toponyms below 400 m a.s.l. were recorded only on the coast, from Uruguay to Rio Grande do Sul, and in the western and southernmost parts of its distribution (Negro, Jacuí, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Paraná basins) (Bérnils 2009). Quinteros-Muñoz (2006) collected an individual at 1880 m a.s.l. in the National Park La Yunga, Bolivia in a region that encompasses altitudes ranging from 1000 to 4000 m a.s.l.

North, central-west, southeast and south of Brazil (Amazonas, Distrito Federal, Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Rio Grande do Sul, São Paulo), Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). Typically, this is a species of open areas (cerrados, savannas, chacos, and pampas) with records near adjacent forests (Bérnils et al. 2007).

Species of small size (n = 2), predominantly diurnal, terrestrial and cryptozoic (Marques et al. 2001). Feeds on anurans (Marques et al. 2001, Forlani et al. 2010). In September, a female was found in the early afternoon (12:00 h), inside a bromeliad (Aechmea aiuruocensis Leme) on the forest floor. In its digestive tract, we found a Physalaemus olfersii (Lichtenstein & Martens, 1856) (ingested by the leg), and three anuran eggs. Moura-Leite et al. (2003) recorded a specimen with 32 anuran eggs in the stomach. The second individual, another female, was found resting during the day. The record was made in November, at the forest edge, near a swamp area. This individual had ingested three Physalaemus jordanensis Bokermann, 1967 (two were ingested head-first and the last by the leg). Pontes et al. (2008) found E. cephalostriata only in primary and secondary forests. The presence of P. jordanensis (found in PESP just in open area marshes, F. Menezes pers. obs.) as prey of E. cephalostriata, indicates this snake also forages in open areas and lentic environments. Reproduction data of the species are scarce. The female collected in September (SVL = 490 mm; TL = 210 mm) presented nine vitellogenic follicles. Fiorillo (2016) refers to a female from Iguape, with eight vitellogenic follicles in November. No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

Found at altitude minimum of sea level from Santa Catarina coast to Rio de Janeiro and maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitude for this species is recorded here, with two individuals found at 1730 m a.s.l.. Bérnils (2009) mentioned that more than 80% of the toponyms come from hill and plateau areas. Although the distribution range is concentrated in mountains and plateau areas, this species is also frequent in lower altitudes (see Hartmann 2005, Fiorillo 2016).

Northeast, southeast, and southern Brazil (Bahia, Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina and São Paulo) (Wallach et al. 2014). Occurs in dense and mixed ombrophilous forest formations, as well as in semi-deciduous forests (Di-Bernardo 1996, Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 1), predominantly diurnal and semi-aquatic (Marques et al. 2001), although there are reports of activity at night (Sazima and Haddad 1992). In September, an individual was found standing still on the forest floor during the day (15:00 h) at a swamp border. This species feeds mainly on amphibians, fish, and tadpoles (Marques and Souza 1993, Marques and Sazima 2004), although it can occasionally feed on other reptiles (Marques and Sazima 2004, Bonfiglio and Lema 2007, Hartmann et al. 2009a). Pizzatto and Marques (2006) reported a continuous reproductive cycle in a population of southern Bahia state coast (northern distribution) and seasonal reproductive cycles in populations of both inland and coastal São Paulo and Paraná states (southern distribution). Fecundity is six to seventeen eggs, with individuals reaching sexual maturity at twelve months (Vitt 1992, Pizzatto and Marques 2006). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

We found no information in the literature regarding the altitudinal variation of the species. In this study, the maximum altitudinal record was at 1643 m a.s.l., in Baependi-MG.

Northern, northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Alagoas, Amapá, Amazonas, Bahia, Ceará, Espírito Santo, Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná, Pernambuco, Piauí, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande Do Sul, Rondônia, Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Sergipe) (Wallach et al. 2014). This species occurs in semi-deciduous, dense, and mixed ombrophilous forests, as well as in adjacent open areas, from the Amazon to the Atlantic Forest (Gans 1964).

Species of small size (n = 8). This species is considered nocturnal and aquatic, associating with lentic watercourses (Gomes 1918, Marques et al. 2001, Gonzalez et al. 2014). During our fieldwork, it was found during all months of sampling in similar numbers and all observations occurred during the day in open areas. Five individuals were found active: four were moving from a river edge towards a swamp (10:00 h, 16:00 h, 17:00 h, 17:30 h) and one towards a creek (14:00 h). Three individuals were found at rest; one on a creek edge (9:00 h.), one in a muddy area (15:00 h) and another in a swamp (16:00 h). Fortes et al. (2010) recorded two active individuals at 21:00 h swimming on the surface of an 80-cm-deep turbid water lagoon. A male (SVL = 420 mm; TL = 75 mm) was kept in a 70cm × 30cm × 45cm terrarium for 10 consecutive days. During this period, it was monitored by camera 24 hours/day, to study its activity. It presented a unimodal activity pattern, with 96.4% of activity records during the day and peak activity from 9:30 to 17:00 h. Data obtained in the laboratory and field observations indicate this species is predominantly diurnal and semi-aquatic. G. brasiliensis frequently uses the ground (instead of the water), mainly during the day, to move between lentic and lotic environments. Of the three specimens examined, one had an earthworm in its stomach. Our results are consistent with the study by Oliveira et al. (2003) who also found traces of earthworm in the digestive tract of G. brasiliensis. Earthworms are sensitive to light and ultraviolet radiation (Edwards and Lofty 1977), so they are predominantly nocturnal, coming to the surface at night or during periods of very low light intensity during the day (Lee 1985). The diurnal activity of G. brasiliensis does not match its prey activity period. G. brasiliensis may hunt and capture its prey underground, during the day, possibly on the borders of marshes where the concentration of earthworms is higher (Frederico Menezes, pers. obs.). No information about reproduction of the examined specimens was recorded, except for a pregnant female in February. The species has seasonal reproduction associated with the rainy season, with juvenile recruitment between February and March (Oliveira et al. 2003). The defensive repertoire is described in Menezes et al. (2017).

Found at a minimum of 430 m a.s.l. in Encruzilhada do Sul, RS and maximum of 1650 m a.s.l. in the Parque Estadual da Serra do Papagaio, Alagoa, MG. The maximum altitudinal record derives from the same are in this study, where most individuals were recorded at 1750 m altitude, in the PESP, Baependi, MG. The toponyms obtained for this species occur in two altitudinal ranges: 51% are located between 430 and 800 meters and 49% above this range (Bérnils 2009).

This species occurs in natural field areas (Amaral 1977, Ghizoni-Jr et al. 2009) in southern and southeastern Brazil (Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and São Paulo) (Gonzalez et al. 2014).

A large species (n = 1), terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001, Gaiarsa et al. 2013). There is no information on the time of activity for this species (Gaiarsa et al. 2013). In October, an adult was seen resting at 11:20 h, coiled in the middle of plant litter, in a forested area. The record occurred in an adjacent conservation area: RPP Alto Montana, Itamonte-MG. Literature data indicate its diet is composed of snakes and lizards (Franco et al. 1997). Regarding the reproduction, Franco et al. (1997) recorded two females: one with seven and the other with 11 eggs. No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species was found at a minimum of 750 m a.s.l. in Guaratinguetá, SP and maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record of the species was 1740 m a.s.l., at RPPN Alto Montana, Itamonte, MG. Bérnils (2009) stated all toponyms found to occur in areas above 750 m a.s.l..

Southeast Brazil (Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo) (Wallach et al. 2014). This species occurs in fields, close to ombrophilous and seasonal forests (Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 1), terrestrial and nocturnal (Marques et al. 2001). A recently road-killed adult male was found in an open area near the PESP, during the morning. There was no evidence of diet or reproduction of the examined specimen. The available information in the literature indicates a diet composed mainly of mammals, although lizards and birds can also be prey (Hartmann et al. 2009b, Gaiarsa et al. 2013). Reproduction is seasonal, with a reproductive peak in the summer (Marques and Sazima 2004). Fecundity varies from four to 16 eggs (Gaiarsa et al. 2013). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

The species is found at a minimum of sea level from the coast of Rio Grande do Sul to Rio de Janeiro, and a maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). In this study, we found this species outside the PESP limits, at 1000 m a.s.l. in the Aiuruoca, MG. Total altitudinal range is broad with 31.7% of toponyms found from the sea level up to 400 m a.s.l., 36.6% between 401 and 800 m a.s.l. and 31.7% above 801 m a.s.l. (Bérnils 2009).

Northeast and southeast Brazil (Bahia, Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, São Paulo), and Argentina (Wallach et al. 2014, Bernardo et al. 2012). It occurs in dense, mixed ombrophilous and seasonal semidecidual forests (Bernardo et al. 2012).

Species of medium size (n = 1), nocturnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001). An individual was found resting during the day (9:30 h) in a pasture area. This species occurs mainly in open areas (Cechin 1999, Sawaya et al. 2008), but may be found in forested areas near fields (Lema 1994, Cardoso 2011). It is a generalist species, feeding mainly on lizards, but also small mammals and snakes (Cechin 1999, Carreira 2002, Maschio et al. 2003, Sawaya et al. 2008). It is oviparous, with litter varying from two to 12 eggs (Gaiarsa et al. 2013). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species is found at a minimum of sea level in Argentina, Uruguay, Rio Grande do Sul, and south of Santa Catarina, and at a maximum of 1330 m a.s.l. in Liberdade, MG (Bérnils 2009). This study provides a new maximum altitudinal record of the species with an individual found at 1730 m a.s.l., Baependi, MG. The records located below 400 m a.s.l. occurred only from the Prata Basin to Santa Catarina (Bérnils 2009).

Northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Ceará, Distrito Federal, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná, Pernambuco, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondônia, Santa Catarina and São Paulo), Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay (Wallach et al. 2014). The species was predominantly found in areas with open formations of Pampa, plateau fields, rupestrian fields, restingas, and at the southern portions of the cerrado (Bérnils 2009, Ghizoni-Jr et al. 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 2), diurnal, often found on the ground in open areas (Di-Bernardo 1998, Marques et al. 2001, Sawaya et al. 2008). A recently road-killed adult male was found in an open field during the morning. The other record is of an adult’s shed skin, located at the grassland, in a rock outcrop, at 1800 m a.s.l.. There is no information on diet and reproduction of the examined specimen. Machado-Filho (2015) describes this species as generalist, feeding on mammals (40%), birds (25%), lizards (20%) and anurans (15%). Vitellogenesis occurs between April and December and ovulation between July and December (Fowler et al. 1998). There is a record of a captive female with eleven eggs (Fowler et al. 1998). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species was found at a minimum of sea level from the coast of Uruguay to Santa Catarina and maximum of 1730 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this species is presented here, with a specimen recorded at 1800 m a.s.l.. Bérnils (2009) mentioned the species occurs at sea level only from Uruguay to Santa Catarina. All other localities where this species was found are plateau areas.

Northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Distrito Federal, Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and São Paulo), Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay (Wallach et al. 2014). This species was predominantly found in open areas of pampas, plateau fields, cerrados, and restingas, with records to adjacent forests (Giraudo and Scrocchi 2002, Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 9), diurnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001, Hartmann and Marques 2005). All observations occurred in open areas during the day. Seven individuals were found between 14:00 and 17:00 h, and two were found in the morning. According to Sazima and Haddad (1992), and Hartmann and Marques (2005), this species is active mainly during the hottest hours of the day. In December, during the day (14:00 h), we found two adults (male and female) about two meters away from each other. Both were coiled at rest and showed evidence of being in the shedding process.

In September, an adult was observed at 14:00 h near a ravine, while it was being attacked by two different birds (Poospiza sp. and an unidentified Passeriformes), possibly in defense of a nearby nest. In July, an adult was observed at 15:00 h, while it was ingesting a rodent. Out of the four examined specimens, two presented rodents in their stomach. Machado-Filho (2015) suggest this species is generalist, feeding on anurans (27%), lizards (25.8%), mammals (19.4%), snakes (10.9%), birds (8%), spiders (4%), fish (0.4%) and amphibians (0.4%). P. patagoniensis was found during all seasons of the year with higher frequency in December (n = 4). There is no information on reproduction of the examined individuals. Previous records indicate reproduction is seasonal, with three to nine eggs, secondary vitellogenesis between August and December, and ovulation between October and December (Fowler et al. 1998, Sawaya et al. 2008). As defensive tactics of this species, we observed cloacal discharge, head elevation, head triangulation, and neck S-coiling.

This species was found at a minimum of sea level from the coast of Argentina to the state of Espírito Santo and maximum of 1660 m a.s.l. in Umuarama, Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this species is from the area in this study, where an individual was recorded at 2200 m a.s.l. altitude, in the Alagoa, MG.

North, northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Distrito Federal, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondônia, and São Paulo), Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay (Wallach et al. 2014). This species can be found in open mountain areas, pampas, plateau fields, chacos, cerrados, restingas and deforested areas (Giraudo and Scrocchi 2002, Bérnils et al. 2007).

Species of small size (n = 1), nocturnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001). A recently road-killed individual was found in an open area during the day. No diet or reproduction data was recovered for the examined specimen. Available information indicates this species is a specialist in mollusks (Marques et al. 2001). Fecundity varies from three to 10 eggs, which may be laid in communal spawning (Albuquerque and Ferrarezzi 2004, Pizzatto et al. 2008a). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species was found at a minimum of 110 m a.s.l., in Puerto Bemberg, Iguazú, Argentina and maximum of 1350 m a.s.l. in the Serra do Ouro Branco, Ouro Branco, MG (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitude for the species is expanded in this work, where a record occurred at 1630 m a.s.l., in the Baependi, MG. Total altitudinal range is broad with 12.3% of toponyms found below 400 m a.s.l., 30.5% above 801 m a.s.l., and 57.2% in the range between 401 and 800 m a.s.l. (Bérnils 2009).

Northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná, Norte and São Paulo), Argentina and Paraguay (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). The species is common in forested formations from the Amazon Forest to the Atlantic Forest, in semidecidual and riverine forests and savannah formations of cerrado (Bérnils 2009, Freitas et al. 2014).

Species of small size (n = 3), diurnal, terrestrial and cryptozoic (Marques et al. 2001). Two recently road-killed individuals were found during the day at 9:00 h and 14:00 h: one in an open area and the other in a forested area. A third individual was also found during the day in an open area, apparently at rest, near a watercourse. Of the three examined specimens, one presented fragments of anurans in its digestive tract. Available information indicates the diet is composed of anurans primarily, but also by lizards and amphisbaenians (Marques et al. 2001, Barbo and Marques 2003). There is no information in the literature regarding the reproduction of the species. A female (SVL = 397 mm TL = 125 mm) presented five vitellogenic follicles in September. No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

This species is found at a minimum of sea level from the coast of Rio Grande do Sul to Rio de Janeiro and maximum at 1600 m a.s.l. in Parque Estadual Ibitipoca, Lima Duarte, MG (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitude for the species is increased, where individuals were observed at 1760 m a.s.l., in Baependi, MG. Bérnils (2009) points out that more than 80% of the toponyms are located in mountains and plateaus above 800 m.

Northeast, southeast and southern Brazil (Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Espírito Santo, SE Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, São Paulo) (Wallach et al. 2014). This species was reported in areas with predominantly dense and mixed ombrophilous forests (Bérnils 2009).

Species of small size (n = 1), diurnal and cryptozoic (Sawaya et al. 2008). This individual was killed during the day by a domestic cat, near a forested area. There is no information on diet or reproduction for the examined specimen. There are no records of reproduction or altitudinal variation in T. gr. occipitalis. Prior reports are limited on diet, indicating only lizards as prey (Cechin 1999). No defensive behavior was observed for this species.

In this study, the maximum record was at 1600 m a.s.l., in the Aiuruoca, MG.

North, northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Ceará, Distrito Federal, Goiás, Pará, Paraíba, Paraná, Piauí, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondônia, São Paulo and Sergipe), Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay (Wallach et al. 2014, Santos-Jr et al. 2008). Taeniophallus gr. occipitalis occurs in open (cerrados, amazon savannas, plateau fields and pampas) and forested areas (western Amazon Forest and northeastern Atlantic Forest, in Brazil) (Santos-Jr et al. 2008).

Species of medium size (n = 15), nocturnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001, Barbo et al. 2011). The species was frequently found in November, December, and January. Ten individuals were observed resting during the day between 9:00 and 15:00 h; nine were in open areas and one on a forest border. Three individuals were found active at 22:00 h, foraging on the margin of a marsh with intense anuran vocal activity. Bernarde et al. (2000a) also observed this aggregation in T. strigatus in a permanent pond in Parque Estadual da Mata dos Godoy, Londrina, Paraná State. A juvenile was collected at 15:00 h while crossing an unpaved road after heavy rain. An adult was observed, also during the day (9:00 h), as it had captured by the leg and was attempting to prey on a Leptodactylus sp. Histological features of the retina of T. strigatus (i.e., presence of cones, but absence of rods) (Hauzman et al. 2014) along with activity data obtained in captivity (Torello-Vieira and Marques 2017) reinforce the idea this snake exhibits significant activity during the day. Of the seven individuals examined, three presented stomach contents: lizard scales (in a young individual), a Physalaemus sp., and a Rhinella sp. (this last one also showed traces of an unidentified exoskeleton - possibly a secondary prey). Bernarde et al. (2000b) suggested T. strigatus is a generalist, feeding primarily on anurans (71.4%), but also rodents (14.3%), fish (3.6%), and lizards (3.6%). In regard to reproduction, one female (SVL = 585 mm; TL = 155 mm, collected in December) possessed 14 vitellogenic follicles and a young individual (SVL = 200mm; TL = 65 mm) was recorded in January. Barbo et al. (2011) mentioned observations of two females: one with 15 vitellogenic follicles in February and another one in November with 24 embryos. We could observe the following defensive behaviors for this species: cloacal discharge, head triangulation, body flattening, strike, and biting.

This species was found at a minimum of sea level and maximum of 2450 a.s.l. in Itatiaia National Park, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Winkler et al. 2011). In this study, the maximum altitudinal record of the species was at 1730 m a.s.l., in the Baependi, MG.

Southern, southeast, and northern Brazil (Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, Roraima and São Paulo), Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina (Franco and Ferreira 2003).

Species of medium size (n = 2), diurnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001). Two individuals were found in forested areas during the day, one active at 12:30 h and the other a recently road-kill found at 10:30 h. These records were observed in September and October. We found no data on diet or reproduction of the examined specimens. Prior literature accounts suggest feeding exclusively on slugs. The reproductive cycle is seasonal, with births occurring from January to June (Bizerra et al. 2005). We observed the following defensive behaviors for T. dorsatus: cloacal discharge, head triangulation, body flattening, strike and biting.

This species is found at a minimum of sea level from the coast of Rio Grande do Sul to Rio de Janeiro, and a maximum of 1610 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). We contribute a new maximum altitudinal record for our study area, where an individual was observed at 1730 m a.s.l., in Baependi, MG.

Central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and São Paulo), Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). This species is common in the Atlantic forest areas, with some records to open adjacent areas (Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 1), diurnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001). In January, an individual was found at 14:00 h crossing an unpaved road in an open area. Prior records indicate this species specialize in anurans, mainly the toxic Rhinella spp. (Vitt and Vangilder 1983, Jordão 1997). X. merremii has a long reproductive cycle, from the beginning of the dry season to the middle of the rainy season. Fecundity varies between six and 44 eggs with recruitment between January and May (Pizzatto et al. 2008). As a defensive tactic of X. merremii, we observed the following behavior: body flattening.

This species is found at a minimum of sea level from the northern coast of Rio Grande do Sul to the extreme south of Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Espírito Santo, and Bahia. Maximum altitude recorded is 1300 m a.s.l. in the Parque Estadual de Itacolomi, Ouro Preto, MG (Bérnils 2009). This study expands the maximum altitudinal record for this species with an individual registered at 1610 m a.s.l. from the Aiuruoca, MG. This species occupies a large variety of habitats, both vegetal and altitudinal. The recorded toponyms corresponds to the altitudinal gradient with 35.3% of toponyms between sea level and 400 m a.s.l., 33.2% between 401 and 800 m a.s.l. and 31.5% above 801 m a.s.l. (Bérnils 2009).

North, northeast, central-west, southeast, and southern Brazil (Bahia, Brasília, Ceará, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Pará, Paraiba, Paraná, Pernambuco, Rondônia, São Paulo, and Tocantins), Bolivia and Paraguay (Wallach et al. 2014). This species occurs mainly in open areas (e.g., Cerrado, Chaco, plateau fields, rocky fields and Caatinga), but is also present in arboreal formations, such as seasonal forests, secondary forests, riverine forests and restingas (Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 7), nocturnal and terrestrial (Marques et al. 2001). We collected twelve specimens of B. fonsecai, (seven during fieldwork and five outside of designated fieldwork periods. Individuals were more frequently observed in February and March. All observations occurred during the day. Ten adults were observed. Seven were at rest, five in open areas (at 9:00, 9:30, 10:00, 14:00, 14:10 h) and two at a forest edge (9:00 and 11:30 h). Three were found moving, two in open areas (10:00 and 14:00 h) and one entering a forested area (14:50 h). In November, we found an adult female, at rest at 9:00 h, 50 m away from a forested area. This female was about to shed. We found the same individual again at 14:00 h at the same place, with the skin-shed next to it. At 17:00 h, it had already retreated under the bush (goat’s beard), remaining coiled in a stalking position. All individuals found in open areas were at most 100 m from a forested area. Two juveniles were found in forested areas, one coiled on the ground in the light-shade mosaics made by the sunlight (12:40 h) and another stretched over the first branches of a bromeliad (Vriesea sceptrum Mez)(9:30 h). This individual (SVL = 263 mm; TL = 38 mm; M = 18 g) was collected and contained a freshly ingested rodent (M = 6 g). B. fonsecai preys exclusively on rodents (Martins et al. 2001). In PESP, B. fonsecai can often be found among ferns (Pteridium arachnoides (Kaulf.)) growing near forested areas (Frederico Menezes, pers. obs.), and occasionally in swamp areas. Only juveniles were found within a forest (about 150 m inside). This difference in habitat use may be related to milder temperatures and protection against visually oriented predators. The reproductive cycle has been described by Menezes et al. (in press). We observed the following defensive tactic behaviors: tail vibrating (against the substrate and its own body), cloacal discharge, hiding the head under the body coils and striking.

This species is found at a minimum of 400 m a.s.l. in Barra Mansa, RJ and a maximum of 1730 m a.s.l. in Campos do Jordão, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this study area is 2175 m a.s.l. in Itamonte, MG. Most of the toponyms where this species can be found (about 65%) are located at altitudes above 800 m a.s.l.

Southeastern Brazil (Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo) (Peters and Orejas-Miranda 1970, Wallach et al. 2014). It occurs in mixed ombrophilous forests and adjacent natural fields (Campbell and Lamar 2004, Bérnils 2009).

A species of medium size (n = 2), semi-arboreal and mainly nocturnal (Sazima 1992, Marques et al. 2001). In January, a recently road-killed adult male was found in the morning in a forested area. In March, an adult was seen at 10:40 h. above a rock outcrop at 2150 m a.s.l. near a forested area. When the observer approached, it fled into the forest. We did not obtain information on diet or reproduction from the observed specimen. Available information on diet from prior studies indicates that B. jararaca is a specialist, with ontogenetic variation. When juvenile, it often feeds on ectothermic prey (amphibians). This shifts to endothermic prey during adulthood (Sazima 1992). The reproductive cycle is seasonal and biennial. Pregnant females can be found from November to March (Almeida-Santos and Salomão 2002). Gestation ranges from 152 to 239 days, with fecundity from three to 36 snakelets (Alves et al. 2000, Almeida-Santos and Salomão 2002).

This species was found at a minimum of sea level between Rio Grande do Sul and Bahia with a maximum of 1640 m a.s.l. in Parque Nacional da Serra da Bocaina, SP (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this species from this study area is an individual recorded at 2150 m a.s.l., in Baependi-MG. Of the surveyed toponyms, 33% occur at low elevations (0–400 m a.s.l.) and 41.5% at intermediate altitudes (400–800 m a.s.l.) (Bérnils 2009).

Central-west, northeast, southeast, and southern Brazil (Bahia, Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, São Paulo, and Santa Catarina), Paraguay and Argentina (Wallach et al. 2014). This species is common in ombrophilous and seasonal forests, although it can also be found in secondary forests and disturbed areas (Bérnils 2009).

Medium-sized snake (n = 1), terrestrial and nocturnal (Marques et al. 2016). We spotted an adult during the day (12:50 h) in March, in a rocky field area. It was basking near a forest fragment at 2150 m a.s.l. When the observer approached, it fled into the forest. The available data in the literature indicates it was found mainly in fields and other open formations (Borges and Araújo 1998, Valdujo et al. 2002, Bérnils 2009). Diet is composed primarily of mammals (Martins et al. 2001, Valdujo et al. 2002).

The neuwiedi complex species was found at a minimum of sea level in the coast of Rio de Janeiro State, and a maximum of 1600 m a.s.l. in Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca, MG (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this species is extended here, with an individual observed at 2150 m a.s.l. in the PESP, Baependi, MG. Bérnils (2009) states more than 80% of the surveyed toponyms are located in mountain and plateau areas, and only five toponyms have been recorded at sea level.

Northeast, central-west, southeast and southern Brazil (Bahia, Goiás, Minas Gerais, Paraiba, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Santa Catarina) (Wallach et al. 2014). Like other taxa of the neuwiedi complex, this species occurs in open formations, such as savannas, rocky fields, and steppes (Bérnils 2009).

Species of medium size (n = 1), with terrestrial and nocturnal habits (Marques et al. 2001). In January, an adult male was found during the day (13:00 h) in a high altitude grassland area. It was moving from the edge of a small forested area, towards an open field. Diurnal habits of this species have been described in reports by Sawaya et al. (2008) and Tozetti and Martins (2013) as well. No information of diet or reproduction was obtained from the specimen we observed. Available data indicates Crotalus has specialized in mammals, but may also ingest lizards (Sant’Anna 1999, Almeida-Santos and Germano 1996, Hoyos 2006). Interestingly, we found feces from an unidentified feline near the site of observation (at 2000 m a.s.l.) that contained a rattle and rattlesnake’s scales, indicating feline predation. Reproduction is viviparous, with a biennial reproductive cycle. Vitellogenesis starts in March and gestation goes through October and January and recruitment happens between January and March (Almeida-Santos and Salomão 1997, Almeida-Santos and Orsi 2002). This specimen presented the following defensive behaviors: cloacal discharge, rattle vibration, s-coil formation, and strike.

This species is found at a minimum of sea level for the coasts of Argentina, Uruguay, Rio Grande do Sul and Bahia and maximum of 1400 m a.s.l. at Taquaral Farm, Paraty, RJ (Bérnils 2009). The maximum altitudinal record for this species in this study area is an individual recorded at 1950 m a.s.l., in the Baependi, MG. Most of the surveyed toponyms occur at intermediate altitudes. Only 21% were found between 0–400 m a.s.l.; 51% between 401 and 800 m a.s.l. and 28% above 801 m a.s.l. (Bérnils 2009).

Southern and southeastern Brazil (Amapá, Amazonas, Bahia, Ceará, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Maranhão, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraíba, Paraná, Pernambuco, Piauí, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondônia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, São Paulo), Netherlands Antilles (Aruba), Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Uruguay, Bolivia and Paraguay (Bérnils 2009, Wallach et al. 2014). This species is typically found in open formations, with little vegetation, such as savannas and steppes (Campbell and Lamar 2004).