Well I picked this guy up... what is it? I've seen rat snakes with a differently colored head so I started here. His belly is also pinkish. Note the black speckling. Its a very vocal snake. Forgive my ignorance, I have been keeping JUST constrictors for a long. long time.
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What is this... Even a rat snake? Help!
loktai
Apr 06, 2008 05:25 PM
Replies (4)
DMong
Apr 06, 2008 07:22 PM
Not a true ratsnake per se, it's a Diadem snake(Spalerosophis diadema), also known as Egyptian Ratsnake, and Royal Diadem. There are I think four species, and five subspecies, they range from northern Africa, throughout the middle-east.
There is still some taxonomic confusion with these in the scientific community.
~Doug
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"Better to be silent and thought a fool, than to open mouth and remove any doubt!"
Loktai
Apr 06, 2008 09:42 PM
Thanks a million!! Something I was completly confused on, cured in one instant. LOL. Hmmm, hes got a ton of personality.
DraigGochHerp
Apr 09, 2008 03:49 PM
I think this one is a Royal Diadem/Spalerosophis diadema atriceps judging by the head colouration Doug, possibly a young adult. If so the head could go much darker with reds and blacks. A snake with plenty of attitude and yes, rear-fanged and mildly venomous.
What size/age is it?
Graham.
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30 Snakes :
Corns, Milks, Kings, American Rats, Asian Rats, Leopard Rat, Texas Long Nosed, Royal, Boa
www.ratsnakefoundation.org
Joe R.
Apr 07, 2008 09:16 AM
Is it mean as hell? Every Diadem I've owned has had a nasty disposition and loves to hiss and strike. Supposedly, they are rear fanged and mildly venomous. I haven't checked for my self, but I think I will today.
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Joe
