Himalayan Keelback
Herpetoreas platyceps
A small mountain-dwelling colubrid found along streams and moist habitats in the Himalayan foothills.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.8 m (1.3-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Himalayan foothills and mountains (South Asia)
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Overview
The Himalayan Keelback is a small, little-studied colubrid snake native to the Himalayan region, occurring across a range of elevations from foothill forests to montane grasslands. It belongs to a group of Asian keelback snakes closely tied to freshwater habitats.
It poses no known danger to humans and is considered harmless, with its natural history remaining relatively poorly documented compared to lowland relatives.
How to identify it
- Slender body, typically brownish or olive with darker mottling or faint striping
- Keeled dorsal scales
- Head only slightly distinct from neck, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.4-0.8 m in length
- Distinguished from lowland keelbacks by its montane range and comparatively subdued coloration
Habitat & range
Inhabits streamsides, wet meadows, and forest edges at moderate to high elevations throughout the Himalayan foothills of India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and closely tied to water, feeding on frogs and other small amphibians. It is shy and quick to flee when disturbed. It is oviparous, though clutch details are not well documented.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Himalayan Keelback venomous?
No, it is considered harmless to humans.
Where does it live?
In streamside and moist habitats across the Himalayan foothills.
What does it eat?
Primarily frogs and other small amphibians.
How big does it get?
Adults typically reach 0.4-0.8 m (1.3-2.6 ft).
Himalayan Keelback guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Himalayan Keelback.
