Ptyas korros (Schlegel, 1837)
Indo-Chinese Rat Snake 灰鼠蛇
(Non-venomous)
Suborder
Serpentes 蛇亞目
Juveniles olive brown, with white dots forming transverse crossbands on anterior part of body. The bands disappear in adults.
Ventrals and chin scales yellowish white. Tail long and whip-like. Scales smooth.
Found in open habitat such as grassy banks of streams and reservoirs, edges of cultivated fields and ponds, dry shrubland and woodland.
Rare in mountain grassland and dense forest.
Often hunts Gunther's frogs (Rana guentheri) in the tall grass around reservoirs, streams and catchwaters.
If surprised near water, will usually dive and swimming away with its head up.
When caught, will constantly thrash about and twist the body, making it extremely difficult to hold.
Will also bite vigorously. Does not become tame in captivity, but accepts food readily.
Captive specimens remain nervous, darting about, striking and biting when approached.
Commonly sold in snake shops for its gall bladder and meat.
Common throughout Hong Kong including many islands.
Ranges from East India to central and southern China including Taiwan, and south through Malay Peninsula to Indonesia.
China Redlist: Endangered
