Identification:
The Dog-toothed Cat Snake ( Boiga cynodon) has a distinct head, clearly separated from the neck. It has large eyes. The dorsal scales are in 21-23 rows at midbody, with the vertebral scales (scales along the midline of the back) being larger than the other dorsal scales. The anal plate is single. The dorsal surface is pale yellow, brown, or red, with dark gray bands or blotches interspersed with lighter bands or marks on the anterior part of the body. These markings become less distinct towards the posterior. The ventral surface is pale yellow. The total body length can reach up to 2 meters.
Biology and Ecology:
The Dog-toothed Cat Snake is arboreal, primarily active at night, and forages nocturnally. They are occasionally encountered on the ground. Their primary diet consists of amphibians and small mammals like mice; however, they will sometimes consume bird eggs and lizards.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Bac Thai, Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai (Bien Hoa).
- Global: India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Philippines.
Value:
Although venomous, the Dog-toothed Cat Snake is not considered deadly due to the weak toxicity of its venom. It has scientific and export value.
Conservation Recommendations:
The Dog-toothed Cat Snake is rare in the wild due to its low population numbers. It was previously included in the Vietnam Red Book. Hunting is prohibited, and captive breeding programs are recommended.