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Fig 1
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© Leong Tzi Ming |
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Fig 2
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© Leong Tzi Ming |
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Family : NATRICIDAE
Species : Rhabdophis flaviceps
Maximum Size : 85 cm
The Orange-necked Keelback
(or 'Orange-lipped Keelback') is a medium-sized, semi-aquatic
snake inhabiting streams and swampy areas near primary and secondary forest.
It occurs up to 1300 metres above sea level, and
preys mainly on amphibians and lizards.
The images shown here illustrate the fairly typical colour and patterning of
the species, which comprises a greyish-brown body with pale cross-bars, a
thick orange-red neck band, and orange-red on the lips and sides of the
head. The body is robust, the head somewhat wider than the body, and the
eyes large. The dorsal scales are keeled.
This species occurs in Southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, and the
islands of Nias, Sumatra and Bangka, as well as Borneo Kalimantan, Sarawak).
It is absent from Singapore.
Figs 1 and 2 : Photographed at a semi-permanent forest pool
near Rompin, Pahang, Peninsular
Malaysia. This specimen measured around 60-70 cm.
Photos thanks to
Leong Tzi Ming
References :
Das, I., 2010. A Field Guide to the Reptiles of South-east Asia. New
Holland Publishers (UK) Ltd.
Manthey U., Grossmann W., 1997. Amphibien und Reptilien Sudostasiens.
Natur und Tier - Verlag.
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