Identification:
The Black-necked Keelback ( Rhabdophis subminiatus) is a medium-sized snake, reaching approximately 85 cm in length. Its head is dark olive-brown, often with darker flecks. The nuchal pattern is variable, but in its distribution in Vietnam, it presents as a pale yellow-white triangular collar. The body is brown to brownish-gray, featuring a black dorsal stripe or a series of black circular spots along the spine.
Biology and Ecology:
This snake species inhabits mid-to-high elevations within tropical rainforest environments. Its diet primarily consists of short-legged skinks. Females lay up to six eggs, nesting within tree cavities and rock crevices.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Yên Tử, Lai Châu, Nghệ An (Kỳ Sơn), Quảng Trị, Thừa Thiên Huế, Gia Lai (Soklang), Lâm Đồng (Bảo Lộc, Đà Lạt, Langbiang), Đồng Nai (Biên Hoà)
- Global: Thailand and the Malay Peninsula, east of the Himalayan foothills, India, Laos, and Myanmar.
Conservation Status:
Populations are scarce and rare. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this species in the wild.