Five Snakes in Malaysia You May Not Know About
As we enter the Year of the Snake, do you know anything about the animal itself? Malaysia boasts a plethora of snake species, each with its own story and ecological role. While there are many recognizable snakes and around the world, there is a selection of snake species in Malaysia that may surprise you.
Brahminy Blindsnake (Indotyphlops braminus): Known as one of the smallest snakes in Malaysia, the Brahminy Blindsnake is a species of snake that’s almost completely blind with small, translucent eyes. It spends most of its life underground in ant and termite nests and is often found in urban gardens and moist forests. The Brahminy Blindsnake is also non-venemous and harmless to humans. They typically grow up between 10 to 20 centimeters in length and are also referred to as a “flowerpot snake” due to often being spotted going through the soil of potted plants.
Oriental Whip Snake (Ahaetulla prasina): Also called the Asian Vine Snake, the Oriental Whip Snake is a large and slender snake recognized for its spade-shaped head. Said head shape can also be described as arrow-like or pointed. With a length that can reach 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet), the Oriental Whip Snake is often found sunbathing or hunting. They also prefer habitats where it can easily camouflage among vegetation. That said, the snake species prefers habitats where it can easily camouflage among vegetation. The snake species also exhibit coloration that ranges from fluorescent green to dull yellow-green or brown depending on their environment and age.
Kukri Snake (Oligodon spp.): A species of snake belonging to a group of non-venomous snakes found in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. They are known for their unique curved teeth used to consume soft-bodied prey like earthworms and snails. Due to their secretive nature, the Kukri Snake spends much of their time hidden beneath leaf litter or burrowing in the ground.
Mountain Wolf Snake (Lycodon butleri): This lesser known snake species identified for their slender body that is typically dark brown or grayish, often adorned with lighter patterns or spots. Unlike other snake species, the Mountain Wolf Snake is primarily found in montane forests at elevations. They are also known as the Butler’s Wolf Snake, this snake is primarily found in montane forests at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,500 meters (3,600 to 4,900 feet) above sea level.
Painted Bronze Back (Dendrelaphis pictus): The Painted Bronze Back is a snake species characterized by its slender body, which can reach lengths of up to 125 cm (approximately 4.1 feet) and coloration. The coloration of this species typically includes an olive-brown or brown dorsal surface, complemented by a bright yellow to cream lateral stripe that is bordered by a dark line. They can be found in a variety of including forests, scrublands, parks, and agricultural areas. The snake species also hunts in forested areas or near water culverts and feeds on small vertebrates such as frogs and lizards.
Sustaining Snakes in Malaysia
Despite their ecological importance, snakes face numerous threats, including habitat loss and climate change. To mitigate this, there are few snake conservation projects including community outreach programs aim that have been developed. Furthermore, with this year being the Year of the Snake, it is considered taboo to cause snakes harm as such actions are believed to invite misfortune. Conversely, showing respect to snakes throughout their zodiac year can attract good fortune.
Whether you are a fan or not of snakes, it is important to know about the different snake species in the area. With this year being the Year of the Snake, it is considered taboo to cause harm or kill to a snake and
