Identification Characteristics:
This snake species is large, with a body length reaching up to 2 meters. The head is long and clearly distinct from the neck. The eyes are of medium size, with round pupils. The upper lip features 9 scales, with 2 scales bordering the eye. The scales around the mid-body are arranged in 23 rows, with distinct ridges on the back that fade towards the belly. The anal scale is divided, and the subcaudal scales are arranged in two rows. The head is gray, with a dark streak running from the eye, across the temporal region, to the mouth. The snout and upper lip are a pale gray-brown. The chin and throat are off-white. The anterior half of the body has four rows of large, dark gray blotches; the blotches in the two dorsal rows near the head connect, forming a shape resembling the letter “H”. Near the middle of the back, each blotch has a lighter spot in the center, fading towards the posterior end of the body.
The posterior body has two large, discontinuous gray-brown stripes, separated by light stripes running from the back to the belly on both sides, and a large gray stripe down the midline of the back. The tail has four dark gray stripes, alternating with four off-white stripes, with the two stripes on the belly being lighter than the two on the back. This species has many subspecies, with varying colors ranging from yellow, white, and gray-white, depending on the geographic location.
Biology and Ecology:
This species typically inhabits forest edges and well-preserved evergreen forest areas at elevations up to 1500 meters. Its primary diet consists of amphibians and small rodents. While it can be aggressive when provoked, it is a completely non-venomous snake.
Distribution:
The species’ distribution has been documented from Lao Cai to Binh Phuoc (Bu Gia Map National Park), Tay Ninh (Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park), and it is also found in Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Value:
This snake species has beautiful markings and is non-venomous, leading to its frequent trade as a pet in Vietnam and internationally. It is a relatively rare species and requires protection within its natural habitat.