The snakes from these great altitudes inhabit hot springs.

TCD MS 10515 folio 59r

TCD MS 10515 folio 59r

[April 28th 1916]

Snake at high Altitudes

In connection with my remarks in an old journal as to the altitude to which reptiles ascend, it interested me to learn from Col. Wall that he had recieved snakes from high altitudes in Thibet (I think 13,000 to 14,000 feet but must find the record). The snakes from these great altitudes inhabit hot springs. This appears to me of special interest as it suggests.

(1) Diminution of temperature cause of non ascent of reptiles in mountains

(2) Snakes in Thibet in hot springs isolated; a pleasing contrast to the isolation of Alpine forms in mountain heights.

(3) If now isolated in hot spring, may not this be zoological evidence of recent elevation of mountains.

(Record to be obtained and facts considered)