Greater Keeled Rat Snake

Greater Keeled Rat Snake for sale

Greater Keeled Rat Snake, also known as the Keeled Rat Snake or the Common Keeled Rat Snake, is a non-venomous colubrid found in various parts of Southeast Asia. Here’s a detailed description of this fascinating reptile:

Physical Description

• Coloration: The Greater Keeled Rat Snake typically exhibits a dark olive or brownish coloration on its dorsal side with lighter, often yellowish, undersides. The scales along its back and sides have distinct keels (raised ridges), which give the snake its “keeled” appearance.
• Size: This species is known for its considerable length, often reaching 2.5 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet), making it one of the larger rat snake species.
• Scales: The keeled scales provide a rough texture. The scales are arranged in 17-19 dorsal scale rows at midbody.

Habitat and Distribution

• Habitat: The Greater Keeled Rat Snake inhabits a variety of environments, including tropical and subtropical forests, agricultural areas, and plantations. They are often found near water sources such as rivers and streams.
• Geographic Range: This species is widespread in Southeast Asia, including countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and parts of India and China.

Behavior and Diet

• Behavior: The Greater Keeled Rat Snake is diurnal, meaning it is active during the day. It is an excellent climber and swimmer, often found in trees or bushes but also spending significant time on the ground.
• Diet: As its name suggests, this rat snake primarily preys on rodents, which helps control pest populations. It also eats birds, lizards, and occasionally other snakes. Their diet in the wild is quite varied, contributing to their adaptability in different habitats.

Reproduction

• Breeding: Keeled Rat Snakes are oviparous, laying eggs rather than giving live birth. The breeding season and clutch size can vary, but females generally lay between 5 to 20 eggs per clutch.
• Development: Eggs hatch after an incubation period of about 60-70 days. Hatchlings are independent from birth and resemble miniature adults.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: In captivity, they require a large, secure enclosure with plenty of vertical space for climbing and horizontal space for movement. The enclosure should include branches, foliage, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.
• Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature gradient with a basking spot around 28-32°C (82-90°F) and a cooler area around 24-26°C (75-79°F). Humidity should be kept moderate, around 60-70%, with higher humidity provided during shedding periods.
• Feeding: In captivity, they can be fed a diet of appropriately sized rodents. Feeding should be adjusted according to the snake’s size and age, typically once a week for adults and more frequently for juveniles.

Conservation

• Status: The Greater Keeled Rat Snake is not currently listed as endangered. However, habitat destruction and illegal collection for the pet trade could potentially threaten local populations.

Popularity in Captivity

• This species is occasionally kept by reptile enthusiasts due to its impressive size and interesting appearance. However, their large size and active nature mean they are best suited for experienced keepers.

Interesting Facts

• Adaptability: The Greater Keeled Rat Snake’s ability to thrive in various environments, including urban areas, makes it a resilient species.
• Pest Control: By preying on rodents, they play an important role in controlling pest populations in agricultural areas.