Painted Bronzeback
Dendrelaphis pictus
A brightly patterned, agile tree snake of Southeast Asia, named for the bold black-and-cream striping revealed between its scales when alarmed.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.4 m (3-4.6 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia
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Overview
The painted bronzeback is a slender, diurnal tree snake widespread across Southeast Asia. It is a member of the genus Dendrelaphis, distinguished from many relatives by the striking black-edged interstitial skin that becomes visible when the snake inflates its neck.
It is a common and conspicuous species in both natural and disturbed habitats throughout its range, frequently observed by residents and naturalists alike.
This species is non-venomous and not considered dangerous to humans.
How to identify it
- Slender, elongated body with a bronze to olive-brown back
- A pale, often yellowish or cream lateral stripe bordered by black
- When threatened, inflates the neck to reveal black-and-white checkered skin between scales
- Smooth scales and large, round-pupiled eyes
- Head narrow and distinct from neck
The exposed interstitial pattern when the neck is flattened is a key diagnostic feature separating it from similar bronzebacks.
Habitat & range
Found in lowland forests, forest edges, mangroves, plantations, and gardens across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and neighboring regions. It is highly arboreal, favoring shrubs and low trees but also traveling on the ground.
It adapts readily to human-altered environments, often persisting in agricultural and suburban areas.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Active during the day, moving quickly through foliage in search of prey. When alarmed, it flattens its neck vertically to display a bold black-and-cream pattern as a bluffing defense.
It feeds primarily on frogs and lizards, sometimes small birds. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of several elongated eggs laid in vegetation or leaf litter.
Frequently asked questions
Is the painted bronzeback venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and not dangerous to humans.
Why does the painted bronzeback flatten its neck?
It inflates its neck to display a startling black-and-cream pattern as a defensive bluff.
Where is the painted bronzeback found?
It is widespread across Southeast Asia in forests, mangroves, and gardens.
What does the painted bronzeback eat?
It preys mainly on frogs and lizards.
Painted Bronzeback guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Painted Bronzeback.
