The Variable Reed Snake is a burrowing, nocturnal forest species which only comes to the surface on rare occasions; it is therefore rarely seen. The dorsal surface is dark brown, and the ventral surface a striking yellow, generally with black crossbands. It preys on small frogs, and invertebrates.

The species ranges from southern Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia to Singapore, Borneo and Sumatra. It may be found up to an altitude of around 1500 metres. 

Fig 1 : Typical specimen (length 30 cm) from Fraser's Hill, Peninsular Malaysia (altitude 900 metres).

Figs 2 and 3 : Another specimen from Fraser's Hill with bluish iridescence.
 

Family : COLUBRIDAE
Subfamily : Calamariinae
Species : Calamaria lumbricoidea
Maximum Size : 40 cm
 

References : H1, H2, H3