Amur Rat Snake
Elaphe schrenckii
A large, glossy black-and-yellow rat snake native to the temperate forests of the Russian Far East, China, and Korea, well adapted to cold winters.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.5-1.8 m (5-6 ft)
- Range
- Russian Far East, China, and Korea
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Overview
The Amur rat snake is a large, cold-tolerant colubrid found across the Amur River basin, northeastern China, and the Korean Peninsula. It is among the northernmost-ranging rat snake species in the world.
It is entirely non-venomous and considered docile, making it one of the more calm-tempered large colubrids in its range.
Its striking black and yellow coloration and hardiness in cold climates have made it a well-studied species among East Asian snake fauna.
How to identify it
Adults are typically glossy black with irregular yellow or cream crossbands or blotches, though coloration can vary regionally, sometimes appearing more olive or brown.
- Smooth, glossy dorsal scales
- Broad head modestly distinct from the neck
- Robust, muscular body
- Round pupils
- Adults commonly reach 1.5-1.8 m
Habitat & range
This species inhabits temperate forests, forest edges, grasslands, and rocky hillsides across the Russian Far East (including the Amur region), northeastern China, and the Korean Peninsula. It tolerates a cold, strongly seasonal climate and hibernates through winter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
The Amur rat snake is diurnal and generally calm, rarely biting even when handled. It is an active hunter of rodents and birds, which it subdues by constriction.
It undergoes winter dormancy in colder parts of its range and is oviparous, with females laying clutches of roughly 10 to 20 eggs in early summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Amur rat snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and known for a generally calm disposition.
How big does the Amur rat snake get?
Adults typically reach 1.5-1.8 m in length.
Where is the Amur rat snake found?
It is native to the Russian Far East, northeastern China, and the Korean Peninsula.
How does the Amur rat snake survive cold winters?
It enters a period of winter dormancy in sheltered burrows or crevices during the coldest months of its temperate range.
Amur Rat Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Amur Rat Snake.
