Twin-spotted Rat Snake

The twin-spotted rat snake is a small to moderately sized colubrid endemic to central and eastern China. Its common name reflects the paired dark spots that run along the length of its back.

It is non-venomous and poses no danger to humans, being generally a shy and inconspicuous species.

Due to its modest size and secretive habits, it is less commonly encountered than some of its larger relatives, though it is a well-documented member of the Chinese rat snake fauna.

The dorsal ground color is typically light brown, tan, or gray, marked with two parallel rows of small dark brown or black spots running the length of the body.

• Slender, relatively small body compared to other rat snakes
• Smooth dorsal scales
• Narrow head not strongly distinct from the neck
• Round pupils
• Adults typically reach 0.6-1.0 m

This species is found in rocky hillsides, agricultural terraces, and scrubland across central and eastern China, often at moderate elevations, sheltering under rocks and in crevices.

The twin-spotted rat snake is generally secretive and most active at dusk or after rain, spending much of the day hidden in rock crevices or under debris. It is not considered aggressive.

It preys on small rodents, lizards, and occasionally invertebrates, subduing prey by constriction. It is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of a few eggs per season.