Xenochrophis piscator (Schneider, 1799)
Checkered Keelback 漁游蛇
(Non-venomous)
Suborder
Serpentes 蛇亞目
Average 75 cm, may grow up to 135 cm
Some individuals may have red or orange spots on lower sides.
Ventrals whitish with black border to each side.
Two black streaks behind each eye, occasionally with a yellow patch between them, especially in juveniles.
Neck with a black "V" marking. A short yellowish streak may be found on top of head.
Scales somewhat keeled.
Prefers lowland ponds, streams and ditches in cultivated fields. Occasionally found in upland basins (Po Lin Monastery grounds).
Scarce around large fish ponds. Absent from mangrove swamps and mountain streams.
Both diurnal and nocturnal. Very good at swimming and diving.
Capable of remaining under water for up to 20 minutes.
When caught, flattens and turns the neck in threatening posture, then strikes and bites fiercely.
Preys on fish, frogs, tadpoles, and rarely on small toads.
Breeds during the warm period of the year, particularly in March-April.
Usually lays 20-40 eggs, but 88 is the record.
Hatchling 15-20 cm long, and start to appear from July to September.
Can be found throughout the New Territories and on all major islands, but was more abundant in the early 1980s.
Although still common to abundant in some locations, its population in other localities has been affected by destruction of suitable habitat by urban development and abandonment of cultivated fields and subsequent invasion of grasses.
Occurs in southern China including Taiwan, South and Southeast Asia.
