White-lipped Keelback
Hebius leucomystax
A small forest-floor colubrid of Southeast Asia distinguished by its contrasting white upper lip scales.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia
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Overview
The White-lipped Keelback is a small, forest-dwelling colubrid found in Southeast Asia, easily recognized by the pale white stripe along its upper lip contrasting with darker facial coloration. It is part of a diverse group of small keelback snakes occupying leaf litter and stream-side habitats.
It is harmless to humans and generally goes unnoticed due to its secretive, ground-dwelling habits.
How to identify it
- Brown to olive body, often with faint darker mottling
- Distinct white or cream stripe along the upper lip, giving the species its name
- Keeled dorsal scales
- Rounded head, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.4-0.7 m in length
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland and hill forests, often near streams and moist leaf litter, across parts of Southeast Asia including Thailand, Malaysia, and neighboring regions.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and secretive, foraging among leaf litter for frogs and invertebrates. It rarely bites and tends to flee when disturbed. It is oviparous, though detailed reproductive data are limited.
Frequently asked questions
Is the White-lipped Keelback dangerous?
No, it is harmless to humans.
How is it identified?
By the distinctive white stripe along its upper lip against a darker face.
Where is it found?
In lowland and hill forests of Southeast Asia.
What does it eat?
Frogs and small invertebrates found in leaf litter.
White-lipped Keelback guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding White-lipped Keelback.
