Chinese Mountain Snake (non-venomous)

Description: A small- to medium-sized snake, averaging 40-50 cm in total length, but reaching a maximum of 61 cm. Greyish-brown or tan above. A thin, black mid-dorsal stripe of varying lengths in the anterior part of the body. Rarely, the stripe may be completely absent. May have two indistinct tan-coloured stripes, one on each side of lower flanks. Scales smooth. Head very dark, almost black, rather spatulate in shape. Centre of head usually with an irregularly-shaped greyish band. Tip of snout may be greyish. Labials light-coloured. A thin, whitish ring around the neck, sometimes interrupted by the black dorsal stripe. Ventrals yellowish-white, with a dark spot at both ends of each scale. Young snakes may be paler in colour.

Habits and habitat: A species of moist secondary forest in hilly and mountainous areas. Also occurs in grassland and bamboo thickets at high elevations, but is absent from dry areas. Sometimes found inside catchwaters. Is diurnal. A gentle snake, never attempting to bite when handled. Can move fast when alarmed. Does well in captivity.

Diet: Feeds on skinks. Also reported to eat grass lizards. Usually grabs the lizard by the head and swallows it whole, head first.

Reproduction: Oviparous. Hatchlings 10 cm long.

Distribution: Quite uncommon, but widely distributed over the central New Territories, parts of Lantau and Hong Kong islands. Found in southern China including Taiwan, and Vietnam.

Diagnostic features: General overall brown colour; head black; narrow whitish-yellow collar on neck.