Identification:
Appearance:
- A harmless snake, approximately 1 meter in length.
- Head not distinctly separated from the neck.
- Dorsal coloration is a shade of reddish-pink. A series of black diamond-shaped markings extends along the mid-dorsal region, with horizontal yellow markings within each diamond.
- A blackish-grey band across the snout. A second band crosses the top of the head, passing through both eyes. A third band forms an “L” shape on the nape of the neck.
- Ventral surface is yellow, with large, staggered, horizontal blackish-grey markings.
Biology and Ecology:
- Inhabits forests near streams or grassy areas on hills and mountains.
- Primarily feeds on rodents and lizards.
- Lays approximately 5-10 eggs.
- Eggs are elongated, with tough, white shells.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Lai Châu, Lào Cai, Sơn La, Lạng Sơn, Vĩnh Phúc, Hà Tĩnh provinces.
- Global: India, China (Taiwan), Myanmar, Laos.
Value:
- Valuable for its role in protecting vegetation (primarily by controlling rodent populations).
- Aesthetically pleasing due to its pattern and coloration.
- Larger individuals are kept in zoos for educational purposes, particularly for environmental education for students.
Conservation Status:
- Habitat is restricted and severely fragmented.
- Populations are small.
- Declining in both habitat area and quality.
IUCN Classification:
- VU (Vulnerable) B1 + 2a,b,c.
Conservation Measures:
- Protected by prohibiting hunting.
- Conservation through breeding programs within protected areas.