Dog-toothed Cat Snake
Boiga cynodon
A large, boldly patterned nocturnal tree snake of Southeast Asian forests, named for its notably elongated front teeth.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 1.5-2.5 m (5-8.2 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia
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Overview
The dog-toothed cat snake is one of the larger species in the genus Boiga, distributed widely across Southeast Asia. Its common name refers to the noticeably enlarged front teeth, which are more prominent than in many related cat snakes.
It is an accomplished nocturnal climber found in forests and wooded habitats, feeding on a range of vertebrate prey.
As a rear-fanged species, it is mildly venomous, capable of causing local discomfort but not considered dangerous to healthy adults.
How to identify it
- Large, robust body for a cat snake, with rough or slightly keeled dorsal scales in some populations
- Reddish-brown to tan background with dark, irregular blotches or crossbands
- Broad, distinct head with large, vertically elliptical pupils
- Notably elongated front teeth, visible in the open mouth
- Long, prehensile-capable tail
Distinguished from other large cat snakes by its greater average size and pronounced dentition.
Habitat & range
Found in lowland and hill forests, forest edges, and plantations across much of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is arboreal, frequenting trees and dense shrub layers.
It can also occur in disturbed habitats near forest, including agricultural edges.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and an active climbing predator, hunting at night among branches and foliage. It may display defensive behavior such as coiling and hissing if disturbed.
Its diet includes birds, bats, small mammals, and lizards, subdued with mildly venomous rear fangs. It is oviparous, with females laying clutches of eggs in tree hollows or similar sheltered sites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the dog-toothed cat snake venomous?
It is mildly venomous with rear fangs, but not considered dangerous to healthy adults.
How big does the dog-toothed cat snake get?
It is a large cat snake, reaching 1.5-2.5 m (5-8.2 ft).
Where is the dog-toothed cat snake found?
It occurs in forests across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
What does the dog-toothed cat snake eat?
It preys on birds, bats, small mammals, and lizards.
Dog-toothed Cat Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dog-toothed Cat Snake.
