Wildlifeof China
Rhabdophis tigrina
Colubrid SnakesRhabdophis tigrina
Basic stats
Diet
Small vertebrates, especially frogs and toads
Range
Eastern Russia, Korea, China, Taiwan, Vietnam and Japan
Size
Usually 60–100cm total length
The tiger keelback is an olive-green snake patterned with black and bright-orange crossbars or spots along the neck and anterior body; its underside is whitish. It occurs widely in East Asia, including several provinces across central and eastern China. The scientific name used by the source is Rhabdophis tigrinus, while Rhabdophis tigrina is listed among its synonyms. (Wikipedia, general species account)
It hunts mainly frogs and toads, locating prey with both chemical and visual cues. Specialized glands along the neck store defensive steroids obtained from toxic toads, separately from the venom produced by its oral glands. Females can transfer some of these stored defensive chemicals to their developing offspring. Its defensive response varies with temperature: at cooler temperatures it more often flattens its body and remains still, while in warmer conditions it is more likely to flee. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Quick answers
- What does the Rhabdophis tigrina eat?
- Small vertebrates, especially frogs and toads
- Where is the Rhabdophis tigrina found?
- Eastern Russia, Korea, China, Taiwan, Vietnam and Japan
- How big is the Rhabdophis tigrina?
- Usually 60–100cm total length