There have been a number of life-threatening cases of Rhabdophis subminatus bites in hobbyists in Europe and N. America - there is no doubt that the species is potentially lethal. Moreover, the symptoms of Rhabdophis bites (DIC, coagulopathy, renal involvement) are quite different from those of venom allergy.



Having said that, like most rearfangs, the vast majority of Rhabdophis bites are asymptomatic, presumably because either the fangs don't go in, or because venom is only secreted when the snake is motivated by hunger rather than in defensive situations (something only likely to occur in captive situations). A series of five R. subminatus bites sustained int he field in Thailand was entirely benign. The experience of Malaysian locals and European/US herpers are thus not unreconcilable.



Even in the most dangerous rearfangs (Dispholidus, Thelotornis), only 10-20% of bites result in any symptoms, so it is no wonder that some species only reveal their true potential over a number of years in the herp hobby.



Cheers,



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