Blueneck keelback facts for kids
The blueneck keelback or blue-necked keelback (scientific name: Rhabdophis rhodomelas) is a type of snake found in parts of Southeast Asia. It belongs to a large group of snakes called Colubridae. This snake gets its common name from the bluish color that can be seen on its neck.
Quick facts for kids Blueneck keelback |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Rhabdophis
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| Species: |
rhodomelas
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Contents
Meet the Blueneck Keelback Snake
The blueneck keelback is a fascinating snake. It was first described by a scientist named H. Boie in 1827. This snake is known for its unique appearance, especially the blue patch on its neck.
Where Does It Live?
This snake lives in several countries in Southeast Asia. You can find it in the Malay Peninsula, which includes southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, and Singapore. It also lives on the island of Borneo, in areas like Sarawak and Sabah (Malaysia), and Kalimantan (Indonesia). You can also find it in western parts of the Indonesian islands, such as Sumatra, Java, and Bangka Island.
The blueneck keelback is not a very common snake. It prefers to live in lowland forests, especially near rivers and streams. These areas are usually less than 200 meters (about 650 feet) above sea level.
What's Special About It?
When this snake feels threatened, it has a special way of defending itself. It can rear up, just like a cobra, and flatten its neck. This makes it look bigger and more intimidating to predators.
A book called "Fascinating Snakes of South East Asia" mentions something interesting about this snake. It says that when the blueneck keelback flattens its neck, a whitish liquid might come out from glands under its skin onto the blue patch. Scientists are still trying to figure out why this happens.
How Does It Reproduce?
The blueneck keelback lays eggs. This means it is an oviparous species. A female snake can lay quite a few eggs at one time, sometimes up to 27 eggs in a single clutch.
