Temporal scales

In reptiles, the temporal scales are located on the side of the head between the parietal scales and the supralabial scales, and behind the postocular scales.^[1]

Nomenclature of scales (top view of head)

There are two types of temporal scales:^[1]

• Anterior temporals are in contact with the postocular scales.
• Posterior temporals are in vertical rows not in contact with the postocular scales; sometimes called secondary and tertiary temporals.

Chequered Keelback Xenochrophis piscator

Glossy-bellied Racer Coluber ventromaculatus

Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus

Related scales

• Parietal scales
• Supralabial scales
• Ocular scales

See also

• Snake scales
• Anatomical terms of location