Red-necked Keelback
Rhabdophis subminiatus
An Asian colubrid notable for the bright red-orange patch on its neck.
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.3 m (2.3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Red-necked Keelback is a colubrid found across South and Southeast Asia, distinguished by the vivid red-orange coloration on its neck region contrasting with an olive-green body.
It belongs to the genus Rhabdophis, several members of which sequester compounds from toad prey into specialized nuchal glands, making them unusual among colubrids.
How to identify it
- Olive-green to grayish-green body with a bright red or orange patch across the neck
- Black speckling or barring often present just behind the head
- Keeled dorsal scales
- Rounded head, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.7-1.3 m in length
- Neck coloration is the key distinguishing feature from other keelback species
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland forests, rice paddies, marshes, and areas near ponds and streams across India, Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, and southern China. It is often found near human settlements where water and amphibian prey are abundant.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily diurnal, foraging for frogs and toads. It is generally shy. It is oviparous, laying clutches of around 5-15 eggs.
Frequently asked questions
How is it recognized?
By the distinctive bright red-orange patch across its neck against an olive-green body.
Where is it found?
Across South and Southeast Asia, in lowland forests, paddies, and near freshwater.
What does it eat?
Primarily frogs and toads.
Red-necked Keelback guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Red-necked Keelback.
