Identification
The tree snake species is large, with a body length of approximately 250 cm. Its head is bi-colored, with black on the upper portion and yellow on the lower portion. The body and tail are glossy black, marked with 21-41 narrow yellow crossbands that typically do not extend across the back. The throat and anterior throat region are uniformly yellow, while the remainder is yellow and black.
Biology and Ecology
This species typically inhabits high-humidity forests and is often observed on tree branches near water sources at an altitude of approximately 610m. It is also frequently found in mangrove forests. The diet of this species is not definitively known, though they may consume frogs and toads. Females lay between 4-15 (relatively large) eggs. Hatchlings emerge after approximately 12 weeks of incubation and measure about 35-43 cm in length.
Distribution
- Vietnam: Binh Duong (Thu Dau Mot), Binh Phuoc, Tay Ninh, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Global: Southern Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Conservation Status
The population is very small, with its habitat being destroyed in mangrove forests and wetlands, making it a threatened species. Urgent inclusion in the Vietnamese Red Book is needed for management and conservation.