Forsten's Cat Snake

Forsten's cat snake is a large, robust member of the genus Boiga found in forested and rocky regions of the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka. It is among the larger cat snakes in South Asia and is recognized for its strength and boldly marked body.

It is an agile nocturnal climber found in both forest and rocky habitats, preying on a variety of vertebrates.

As a rear-fanged species, it is mildly venomous, with bites capable of causing localized swelling but not considered dangerous to healthy adults.

• Large, muscular body, brown to grayish-brown with dark, irregular blotches or crossbands
• Broad, distinct head with large, vertically elliptical pupils
• Smooth scales and a somewhat compressed body suited to climbing
• Pale cream to yellowish venter
• Long, prehensile tail

Distinguished from other regional cat snakes by its larger size and heavier build, along with bold blotched patterning.

Occupies forests, rocky hillsides, and scrublands across peninsular India, the Western Ghats, and Sri Lanka. It is a capable climber, using both trees and rocky crevices, and is also found on the ground.

It occurs from lowlands into hill forests, tolerating a range of habitat types.

Nocturnal, hunting at night and sheltering in tree hollows, rock crevices, or dense vegetation during the day. It can be defensive when cornered, coiling and posturing readily.

Its diet includes birds, small mammals, lizards, and bats, subdued with mildly venomous rear fangs. It is oviparous, laying clutches of several eggs.