Northern Reed Snake (non-venomous)

Description: A small snake, up to 45 cm in total length; remarkably stocky for its size. Back dark brown or blackish, with a pair of yellowish-white or tan spots on neck, and another pair just in front of tail tip. All scales smooth. Head not distinct from neck. Both head and tail blunt. Tail short and, at first glance, may be difficult to distinguish from the head. Coral-red ventrals. A thin black line on underside of tail.

Habits and habitat: A fossorial species, usually living below the ground surface in forests or even lawns. Seems to be absent from steep slopes, which have shallow soil. Its habits are poorly known. A secretive and inoffensive snake, seldom emerging from its burrow, except after showers when it prowls on the surface, especially at night. Has been observed to cross paved paths. Seldom found beneath objects. According to C.H. Pope, tail can behave like a head, striking at offensive objects.

Diet: In the wild one specimen was observed to eat a large earthworm; remains of earthworm were found inside another specimen.

Reproduction: Oviparous. One gravid female was reported to contain 2 eggs.

Distribution: So far the only locality in Hong Kong where this snake has been found is the Clear Water Bay peninsula in the New Territories. Can be said to be locally common there. First recorded in Hong Kong in 1964. Has been seen regularly in the same area for the last 32 years, although prior to 1982 there were fewer sightings. Part of the suitable habitat has been destroyed by development. Widely distributed over central and southern China, and northern Vietnam.

Diagnostic features: Dark chocolate-brown colour; head and tail-end both blunt; a pair of yellowish or tan spots on neck; another pair one head's length In front of tail tip; ventrals coral-red; a black line on underside of tail.