Frog-eating Rat Snake
Rhabdophis subminiatus
A widespread South and Southeast Asian colubrid closely tied to wetlands, feeding heavily on frogs.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.3 m (2.3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
Often referred to as the Frog-eating Rat Snake for its strong dietary preference, this species is more formally known as the red-necked keelback, a rear-fanged colubrid found across South and Southeast Asia. It possesses venom that can cause serious effects in humans in rare cases, making it one of the few colubrids of genuine medical significance in its range.
It is closely tied to aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats, where amphibians make up the bulk of its diet.
How to identify it
- Moderately slender body with strongly keeled scales
- Bright green to olive-green coloration, often with a reddish-orange patch behind the head (the 'red neck')
- Black crossbars or speckling on the anterior body
- Large eyes with round pupils
- Nuchal glands present on the neck used in defense
The combination of keeled green scales and a reddish nape patch is distinctive among sympatric colubrids.
Habitat & range
Found in rice paddies, marshes, ponds, streams, and other wetland-associated habitats throughout South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and southern China. Often encountered near water sources.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily diurnal, foraging actively in and around water. Feeds heavily on frogs and toads, along with fish and occasionally other small vertebrates, using mildly toxic rear fangs to help subdue prey. When threatened, it may flatten its neck and display nuchal glands. Reproduction is egg-laying (oviparous), with moderate clutch sizes.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Frog-eating Rat Snake venomous?
It is mildly venomous and, while bites are uncommon, it is considered one of the more medically relevant colubrids in its range.
What does the Frog-eating Rat Snake eat?
As its name suggests, it feeds heavily on frogs and toads, along with fish and other small prey.
Where is the Frog-eating Rat Snake found?
It occurs across South and Southeast Asia, typically near wetlands, ponds, and rice paddies.
What is the reddish patch on its neck?
It marks the location of nuchal glands used in defense, and gives the species its alternate name 'red-necked keelback.'
Frog-eating Rat Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Frog-eating Rat Snake.
