HABITAT AND ECOLOGY This diurnal snake inhabits lowland and hilly moist forests, open dry forests, montane forests, scrublands, plantations, forest edges, cultivated areas, and rice paddies (David and Vogel 1996, Stuebing and Inger 1999; A. Diesmos pers. comm. 2009). It can also be found around human habitations and close to water. It has been recorded up to 1,500 m above sea level, the highest record being from Palawan (David and Vogel 1996). This snake is mainly ground-dwelling, although it may also climb or swim (David and Vogel 1996). It is oviparous, laying clutches of 10 eggs (Cox et al. 1998).
There are protected areas within this snake's range, including several on Palawan in which this species has been recorded. Further research into harvest levels is needed to ensure this species is not undergoing significant declines at local scales. In the Philippines, this species is considered to be Near Threatened. There is a need to initiate awareness programmes to reduce persecution of this species by local people.
CLASS : Reptilia
ORDER : Squamata
FAMILY : Colubridae
GENUS : Ptyas
SPECIES : Keeled Rat Snake (Ptyas carinata)
Conservation status : Least Concern
Update : 06 April 2017