The Striped Keelback Snake is a beautiful, small-to-medium-sized non-venomous snake found mainly in the Indian subcontinent. Scientifically known as Amphiesma stolatum, it’s one of the most commonly spotted snakes in rural and semi-urban landscapes. Due to its harmless nature and stunning striped appearance, it often draws attention from nature lovers and snake enthusiasts. This species is diurnal, which means it is active during the day and often found near water bodies, gardens, and agricultural fields. Despite being a common snake, the Striped Keelback plays an essential role in the ecosystem by keeping a balance in the population of frogs, toads, and insects. This snake is known for its calm temperament and shy behavior. It rarely bites, even when threatened, choosing to escape rather than attack. Through this article, let us explore everything about this fascinating species, from its appearance and behavior to its role in nature and safety tips for encountering it.
Striped Keelback Snake
Species Profiles
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Snake Name | Striped Keelback Snake |
| Scientific Name | Amphiesma stolatum |
| WLPA Schedule | Schedule IV (Wildlife Protection Act, India) |
| Regional Names | English: Striped Keelback, Buff-striped Keelback, White-striped Keelback Hindi: Seetalati, Seeta ki lat, Hurhura, Seetalat (सीतालट) Malayalam: Theliyan paampu, TheyyanPampu, Padakooti, Daivathankutti Kannada: ಪಟ್ಟೆಬೆನ್ನೇಣುಹಾವು (Paṭṭebennēṇuhāvu) Gujarati: પીતપટીતસાપ (Pitpatitasap) Bengali: Hele (ছেলে সাপ) Marathi: Naneti (नानेटी), Shankrachi Jata, Sitechi Lat (विदर्भ), Nanaddo (Goa) Oriya (Odia): Mati biradi (ମାଟିବିରାଡି), Halahalia saapa Tamil: Nirkatan pambu (நீர்க்காட்டான் பாம்பு) Telugu: Wannapam (వన్నపము) Assamese: বামুণী সাপ (Bamuni saap), কাৰ্শলা সাপ (Karshala sap) Tulu: Pagele (ಪಗೆಲೆ) Thai: งูลายสาบดอกหญ้า (Ngu Lai-sab Dok-ya) Sinhala (Sri Lanka): Aharakukka |
| Physical Description | Olive-brown or grayish with two yellowish-white longitudinal stripes |
| Habitat | Grasslands, wetlands, agricultural fields, and near water bodies |
| Diet | Primarily frogs, toads, small fish, and insects |
| Behaviour | Shy, diurnal, fast-moving, harmless |
| Venomous/Non-Venomous | Non-Venomous |
| Venom Type | Not applicable (non-venomous) |
| Venom Effects on Prey | Not applicable |
| Venom Effects on Humans | Not applicable |
| Common or Rare Species | Common |
| Life Span | Around 8-10 years in the wild |
| Mating & Reproduction | Oviparous; lays 5–10 eggs during summer |
Introduction to Snakes of Striped Keelback Snake
The Striped Keelback Snake stands out due to its unique coloration and peaceful demeanor. Unlike the dangerous myths often associated with snakes, this species poses no threat to humans and is actually beneficial to our environment. Anatomically, it has keeled scales (raised ridges), which help in gripping the ground and aid in swift movement. Its body is slender and elongated, with a distinct head not much wider than its neck. Eyes are round with noticeable pupils, indicating it’s a diurnal species.
Snakes, including the Striped Keelback, play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. They help control pest populations like rodents and insects, preventing crop damage and disease spread. Unfortunately, many people misunderstand snakes, assuming all are venomous and deadly. This misconception leads to unnecessary killings of harmless species like the Striped Keelback. Understanding their role, beauty, and behavior helps in changing this narrative. Educating people about these reptiles encourages peaceful coexistence and conservation efforts. These snakes are not just fascinating to observe but also necessary for the health of our ecosystems.
Habitat and Distribution
Striped Keelback Snakes are adaptable and found in a variety of habitats, making them one of the most commonly encountered snakes across India and Southeast Asia. They prefer moist environments and are often seen in paddy fields, grassy lands, gardens, and near ponds or lakes. Their love for water-rich areas also brings them close to human settlements, especially in rural areas where agricultural activity is high. These snakes are often spotted basking in the sun or slithering quickly through wet grasslands.
Geographically, they are distributed across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and parts of Southeast Asia. This broad range is a result of their adaptability and dietary flexibility. Their presence in both urban outskirts and untouched wilderness makes them an important part of the ecosystem in these regions. Their population is stable, which also indicates healthy biodiversity wherever they are found. Protecting their natural habitats ensures they continue playing their ecological role without conflict with humans.
| Habitat Type | Presence |
| Grasslands | Very common |
| Wetlands/Paddy Fields | Frequent sightings |
| Agricultural Lands | Regularly found |
| Urban Outskirts | Occasionally seen in gardens and water tanks |
| Forested Areas | Less common but present |
Snake Behaviour
Striped Keelback Snakes are known for their calm and non-aggressive nature. They hunt primarily during the day (diurnal) and feed on frogs, toads, tadpoles, and small aquatic creatures. They rely on their quick movements and excellent vision to catch prey. When feeding, they don’t use venom but rather swallow their prey whole after overpowering it with their speed.
During the mating season, which generally occurs in warmer months, males can be seen competing for females. These snakes are oviparous, meaning females lay eggs—typically between 5 and 10 in hidden moist areas like under logs or loose soil. Hatchlings appear during the monsoon season and are fully independent from birth.
For defense, these snakes may flatten their body to appear larger or release a foul-smelling musk if handled or threatened. Despite this, they rarely bite and prefer to escape danger. Their coloration also offers excellent camouflage in grassy environments, making it easier to avoid predators like birds and mammals.
First Aid and Medical Treatment
Since the Striped Keelback Snake is non-venomous, its bite is not medically dangerous. However, if bitten:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Apply an antiseptic to prevent infection.
- Observe for signs of infection or allergy.
- Seek medical attention if swelling or unusual symptoms appear (rare).
Reassure the person bitten, as panic can cause unnecessary fear. Educating people that the Striped Keelback is harmless can help prevent hysteria and promote snake conservation.
Global Impact
Globally, Striped Keelback Snake bites are not considered a medical emergency or even a significant issue. Being non-venomous, their bite does not pose a threat to human health. Their presence globally is appreciated more by conservationists, ecologists, and herpetologists than by emergency departments. In rural parts of India, people still fear all snakes due to common myths, but educational campaigns have helped reduce unnecessary panic over species like this one.
If You Encounter a Snake on Your Property
- Remain Calm and Assess the Situation: Avoid sudden movements; snakes usually move away on their own.
- Ensure Safety: Keep children and pets at a distance; do not attempt to touch or kill the snake.
- Identify the Snake (If Possible): Take a photo from a safe distance to assist wildlife experts.
- Contact Professional Help: Reach out to a local snake rescuer or forest department.
- Prevent Future Encounters: Clear dense vegetation, fix rodent issues, and block snake entry points.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about common snakes in your area to reduce fear and promote coexistence.
Tips for Snake Enthusiasts
- How to Safely Observe Snakes in the Wild: Always maintain a safe distance, avoid disturbing their habitat, and use binoculars or zoom lenses for observation.
- Tips for Aspiring Herpetologists: Start by studying local reptile species, join wildlife groups, volunteer with snake rescuers, and consider formal education in zoology or herpetology.
Interesting Facts about Striped Keelback Snake
- Fast Movers: Striped Keelbacks are incredibly fast and agile, making them hard to catch even for experienced herpetologists.
- Excellent Swimmers: They are semi-aquatic and love swimming across ponds and ditches, especially during monsoon season.
- Sun-Basking Experts: You’ll often find them basking on rocks or roads early in the morning to absorb warmth.
- Musky Defense: If threatened, they release a musky odor that acts as a natural deterrent to predators.
- Mimics Cobra Hood: When startled, they sometimes flatten their neck region slightly to mimic a cobra, even though they are harmless.
- Important Pest Controllers: By eating frogs and insect larvae, they help farmers control pests naturally.
- Peaceful Coexistence: Many Indian farmers let these snakes live around their fields, knowing they are harmless and helpful.
- Curious Yet Cautious: They may curiously approach humans but will quickly retreat if they sense danger.
- Nighttime Hiding Spots: During the night or peak heat, they hide under rocks, burrows, or vegetation to stay safe.
- Misidentified Often: Due to their stripes, they are sometimes mistaken for venomous snakes by the untrained eye.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Striped Keelback Snake
Q1: Is the Striped Keelback Snake dangerous to humans?
A: No, not at all! The Striped Keelback Snake is completely non-venomous and harmless to humans. Even if it bites in extreme cases (which is rare), it won’t cause any venom-related symptoms. It’s best to leave it alone and let it go its way.
Q2: What do Striped Keelback Snakes eat?
A: These snakes love feasting on frogs, toads, tadpoles, and sometimes even small fish and insects. Their diet makes them great natural pest controllers in farmlands and gardens.
Q3: Where can I commonly find Striped Keelback Snakes?
A: They’re often seen in grassy fields, agricultural lands, wetlands, and near water bodies like ponds and lakes. They are common in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Q4: How can I identify a Striped Keelback Snake?
A: Look for a small, olive-brown snake with two light-colored stripes running down its back. It has keeled (ridged) scales and a slender body. The stripes are its most distinguishing feature.
Q5: What should I do if I see a Striped Keelback Snake in my garden?
A: Stay calm! Don’t try to touch or kill it. These snakes are shy and will move away on their own. If needed, contact a local wildlife rescuer for help. They’re helpful for your garden’s health!
Q6: Are Striped Keelbacks active at night?
A: No, they are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day. At night, they usually hide under rocks, leaves, or in burrows to stay safe from predators.
Q7: How do Striped Keelbacks defend themselves?
A: When threatened, they may flatten their body or release a foul-smelling musk to scare off predators. They rarely bite and prefer to escape quietly.
Q8: Can I keep a Striped Keelback as a pet?
A: While they are harmless, keeping wild snakes as pets is not advisable and often illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act (Schedule IV) in India. It’s better to admire them in the wild.
Q9: Do Striped Keelbacks lay eggs?
A: Yes, they are oviparous. Females lay around 5 to 10 eggs in moist places during summer. The young snakes hatch during the monsoon and are independent from birth.
Q10: Why are Striped Keelbacks important for the ecosystem?
A: These snakes help maintain balance by controlling amphibian and insect populations, which benefits agriculture and natural biodiversity. They’re crucial members of our ecosystem.
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