Tiger keelback
A species of Keelback snakes Scientific name : Rhabdophis tigrinus Genus : Keelback snakes
Tiger keelback, A species of Keelback snakes
Scientific name: Rhabdophis tigrinus
Genus: Keelback snakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
Rhabdophis tigrinus is a venomous colubrid snake found in East and Southeast Asia. Many sources, though not ITIS, recognize one subspecies, Rhabdophis tigrinus formosanus of Taiwan.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Tiger keelback predominantly feeds on small amphibians like frogs and toads. It also occasionally consumes fish, insects, and other vertebrates. Strikingly, it's able to store acquired toxins from its amphibious prey for its own defense.
Appearance
Tiger keelback is a medium-sized snake, known for its smooth, glossy scales. It bears strikingly unique markings, combining a vibrant yellow base with irregular black stripes that resemble a tiger's pattern. The snake's skin becomes notably vivid during mating season, and males are often brighter than females. An elongated, tapering tail and a slender, cylindrical body are its distinctive physical features.
Behavior
Tiger keelback is a solitary serpent, primarily diurnal, notable for storing toxins from toad prey in specialized glands in its neck. Defensively, it displays the brightly colored skin behind these glands to deter predators. Its unique predatory adaptation includes using its toxicity for hunting and protection.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Keelback snakes Species
Tiger keelback 
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