Latin name:Rhabdophis nigrocinctus
Vietnamese Name:Rắn hoa cỏ đai
Family:Colubridae
Order:Squamata
Class (Group):

Identifying Characteristics:

This snake species is small, with a body length of approximately 95 cm. Juveniles exhibit different coloration compared to adults. Adult snakes have a dark greenish-brown body, with the posterior transitioning to a lighter greenish-brown. Dark stripes, which may connect with the ventral edge, are present on the sides of the body. The head is dark brown with black markings; the upper lip is gray. The chin, throat, and belly are white, fading to a slightly grayish hue posteriorly; the underside of the tail is dark gray with white edges.

Biology and Ecology:

This nocturnal snake preys on frogs and fish as its primary food source. This species has been found at elevations up to 2,100 meters above sea level.

Distribution:

  • Vietnam: Found in Lai Châu (Mường Nhé) and Bidoup – Núi Bà National Park, Lâm Đồng province.
  • Global: Thailand (Southern Surat Thani), Myanmar, China (Yunnan), Laos, and Malaysia.

Conservation Status:

The population is small, and this species is rarely encountered, requiring conservation efforts.