Elaphe carinata

A spacious, robust and perfectly secured terrestrial terrarium, fitted with multiple hides and a few climbing supports (the species climbs readily).

Minimum dimensions for an adult; bigger is always better for this active snake. Provide at least two hides (warm side and cool side) plus a humid hide, good ventilation and lockable closures: it is a powerful and determined escape artist. It is IMPERATIVE to keep each individual ALONE outside of breeding (risk of cannibalism).

A moderately humid environment. Avoid both persistent dryness (difficult sheds) and a waterlogged substrate (dermatitis, scale rot). A humid hide facilitates shedding; ventilate properly.

Choose a substrate that retains moisture moderately without staying waterlogged. Deep enough to allow burrowing. Promptly remove droppings and soiled areas; musk and stagnant moisture encourage bacteria and fungi.

Not strictly essential (a nocturnal/crepuscular colubrid can live without it), but low UVB lighting (5-6%, UVI ~1-2) is beneficial to the metabolism and well-being of this diurnal species. Always provide shaded and hidden areas for self-regulation.

A large container of clean water available at all times; the animal drinks and may bathe in it, especially before shedding. Clean and renew the water regularly, all the more so as these snakes soil it easily.

East and Southeast Asia: central and southern China, Taiwan, northern Vietnam and the Ryūkyū Islands (Japan). Inhabits forests, hilly terrain, agricultural areas and the margins of watercourses, from sea level up to mid-altitude mountains. A temperate to subtropical species, often living cooler than assumed.

Carnivore — In captivity: appropriately sized rodents (mice, rats), sometimes chicks. In the wild: ophiophagous (eats other snakes) and opportunistic (rodents, birds, eggs, amphibians).

Most adapt well to rodents in captivity, but some wild subjects remain reluctant at first and may require a transition. NEVER cohabit two individuals: cannibalism is real. Feed separately and do not overfeed (obesity is common in captivity). Thawed prey recommended.

Clutch 6–15 eggs/young. Laying of large eggs after a winter cooling period (brumation) that triggers reproductive activity. Incubation of about 55-70 days around 26-28 °C. Separate the adults after mating owing to the risk of cannibalism.

• Internal and external parasitism (very common in wild specimens, partly linked to the original ophiophagous diet; quarantine and faecal examination essential)
• Respiratory infections (favoured by unsuitable temperatures or poorly managed humidity)
• Chronic stress and food refusal in nervous or recently imported animals
• Dermatitis / scale rot on overly humid or dirty substrate
• Difficult sheds (dysecdysis) when humidity is insufficient
• Thermal burns from unshielded heat sources