
Big-Eyed Ratsnake
A species of Rat snakes Scientific name : Ptyas dhumnades Genus : Rat snakes
Big-Eyed Ratsnake, A species of Rat snakes
Scientific name: Ptyas dhumnades
Genus: Rat snakes
Content
Description General Info

Description

Known as the fastest snake in Asia, the big-Eyed Ratsnake uses its speed, agility and keen eyes to catch prey on land and in the water, including frogs, fish, other reptiles, birds, and mice. It occupies forests, grasslands and farmland in southern and eastern China, often near bodies of water. It is harmless to humans, and moves erratically if cornered, escaping at the first opportunity.

General Info

Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Big-Eyed Ratsnake primarily adheres to a carnivorous diet, which consists mostly of small mammals and birds. Expert climbing and striking skills aid in catching prey, demonstrating a preference for arboreal or terrestrial vertebrates.
Appearance
Big-Eyed Ratsnake is a slender, long-bodied snake, renowned for its robust length, reaching up to 2 meters. Its scales are smooth with a dominant olive-green color, interspersed with black and yellow crossbars along its body, tail, and head. The eyes are bright, large, and yellowish. Juveniles exhibit a brighter pattern, which fades as they mature. There are no noticeable differences based on gender or subspecies.
Behavior
Big-Eyed Ratsnake can be noted for its solitariness and nocturnality, preferring to establish its territory in trees. It actively forages at nighttime for preys - typically small rodents and birds. Big-Eyed Ratsnake's low-aggression and non-venomous nature, along with its speed and agility, contribute to its survival in its natural habitat.
Population
Decreasing

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Rat snakes Species
Big-Eyed Ratsnake