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Family : COLUBRIDAE
Species : Dryophiops rubescens
Maximum Size : 1 metre
The Keel-bellied Whip
Snake Dryophiops rubescens is closely related to typical green or
brown whip snakes of the genus Ahaetulla, such as the
Oriental Whip Snake.
This diurnal species inhabits lowland forest, including mature secondary
forest, and tends to prefer sunnier areas at the forest edge. It is mainly
arboreal, but will come to ground to traverse short stretches of open land
between forest fragments.
Its diet comprises mainly arboreal lizards and frogs.
The slender body is laterally compressed. The ground colour is grey to ruddy
brown, and is adorned with dark brown and cream spots and flecks. The
underside is cream mottled with brown flecks in places. There is a thick,
dark brown stripe behind each eye, and the tongue is bright red.
The Keel-bellied Whip Snake occurs in southern Thailand, Cambodia, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, Borneo, Java and parts
of the Philippines.
Figs 1 to 3 : Typical specimen from Singapore's secondary forests.
All photos thanks to Noel Thomas.
References :
Baker, N. & K. Lim, (Vertebrate Study Group, Nature Society Singapore),
2008. Wild Animals Of Singapore. Draco Publishing and Distribution Pte. Ltd.
Das, I., 2010. A Field Guide to the Reptiles of South-east Asia. New Holland
Publishers (UK) Ltd.
Tweedie, M., 1957. The Snakes of Malaya. Raffles Museum, Singapore.
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