Bamboo Rat Snake – History and Information
Chinese bamboo rat snake, or false water cobras, are non-venomous colubrid snakes native to China and Vietnam. They are slender, agile snakes with long bodies and smooth scales. They are typically green or yellow, with some individuals having patterns of brown or black scales. Bamboo rat snakes are known for their ability to climb and are often found in trees and bushes, as well as in agricultural fields and gardens.
History
Bamboo rat snakes are native to China and Vietnam and have a long history. In China, they have been depicted in art and literature dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). They were also shown in stone carvings and bronze sculptures found in tombs from the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 AD).
In traditional Chinese medicine, bamboo rat snakes were believed to medicinal properties and were used to treat various ailments, including epilepsy, asthma, and rheumatism. They were also used in traditional Chinese cuisine, where they were believed to have health benefits and were considered a delicacy.
Bamboo rat snakes have also been kept as pets in China and Vietnam for centuries. They are considered docile and easy to care for and are popular among snake enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and behavior. In recent years, bamboo rat snakes have become increasingly popular as pets in other parts of the world.
However, the popularity of bamboo rat snakes as pets has also contributed to their decline in the wild, as they are often captured and traded illegally

Habitat
Bamboo rat snakes are native to China and Vietnam and can be found in various habitats, including forests, agricultural fields, gardens, and urban areas. They are commonly found in areas with a good food supply, such as near farms or parks where they can feed on rodents, birds, and eggs.
Bamboo rat snakes are known for their ability to climb and are often found in trees and bushes. They are also found in underground caves, where they can hide from predators and escape the heat. These snakes are primarily nocturnal and are usually found in areas with a good food supply.
Bamboo rat snakes are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments. However, they are sensitive to habitat destruction and are considered vulnerable species due to losing their natural habitats. In addition, bamboo rat snakes are often captured and traded illegally for the pet trade, which has contributed to their decline in the wild.

Diet
Here are some points about the diet of bamboo rat snakes:
- Bamboo rat snakes are carnivorous and feed primarily on rodents, birds, and eggs.
- They feed on various small mammals, including mice, rats, and voles.
- They may also feed on birds, including chicks and eggs, and occasionally consume lizards and snakes.
- These snakes are non-venomous and use constriction to subdue their prey.
- Bamboo rat snakes are opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of any available food sources.
- Bamboo rat snakes should be fed every 7-10 days, depending on their size and age. It is essential to monitor the snake’s weight and body condition to ensure it is getting enough to eat.

Lifespan
Bamboo rat snakes have a lifespan of approximately 10-15 years in the wild and can potentially live even longer in captivity with proper care. These snakes are considered relatively long-lived compared to other species of snakes and can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 8 feet.
Healthy life for your bamboo rat snake, providing it with suitable habitat, a proper diet, and regular veterinary care is essential. Bamboo rat snakes should be kept in an enclosure that is large enough to accommodate their size and provides adequate space to move and explore. They should be fed a diet of appropriately sized rodents and supplied with fresh water. It is also essential to monitor the snake’s health and weight and to seek veterinary care if necessary. You can help your bamboo rat snake live a long and healthy life by providing proper care and attention.

General Appearance
Bamboo rat snakes are slender, agile snakes with long bodies and smooth scales. They are typically green or yellow, with some individuals having patterns of brown or black scales. These snakes have long, slender heads and small, round eyes, and their bodies are covered in smooth, glossy scales.
Bamboo rat snakes can grow quite large, with some reaching lengths of up to 8 feet. They are known for their capacity to climb and are often found in trees and bushes. They are non-venomous and do not pose a threat to humans, although they may become defensive and bite if they feel threatened.

Captive Requirement
If you are considering keeping a bamboo rat snake as a pet, it is essential to be prepared to provide it with the proper care and habitat to ensure its health and well-being. Now some things to consider when setting up a habitat for a bamboo rat snake:
- Enclosure size: Bamboo rat snakes can grow quite large, so it is essential to provide them with an enclosure that is large enough to accommodate their size and allows them to move and explore. A cage at least 4 feet long and 2 feet wide is recommended for a single adult bamboo rat snake.
- Substrate: Bamboo rat snakes need a substrate in their enclosure to give them traction and help regulate their body temperature. Suitable options include cypress mulch, aspen shavings, or paper towels. Avoid using substrates that can be ingested, such as sand or small rocks, as they can cause blockages in the snake’s digestive system.
- Temperature and lighting: Bamboo rat snakes need a warm and well-ventilated environment, with a temperature gradient ranging from 75-85°F on one end of the enclosure to 95-100°F on the other. It is also essential to provide a basking spot with a heat source, such as a heat lamp or ceramic heater, to allow the snake to thermoregulate. Providing bamboo rat snakes with UVB lighting is unnecessary, as they do not require it for proper health.
- Hiding spots: Bamboo rat snakes need a place to hide and feel secure in their enclosure. Providing them with hiding spots, such as cardboard boxes or plastic hide boxes, can help them feel more at home.
- Water: It is essential to provide clean, fresh water for your bamboo rat snake at all times. The water should be changed regularly, and the bowl should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
By providing your bamboo rat snake with suitable habitat and proper care, you can help it thrive and enjoy a long and healthy life.
FAQs
Are rat snakes good to have around?
Yes, rat snakes can be beneficial as they can help control rodent populations. However, it is essential to know that all snakes, including rat snakes, can carry salmonella bacteria and should be handled cautiously. It is also necessary to research the specific care requirements of the particular species of rat snake you are considering keeping as a pet or allowing to live near your home to ensure that you can provide for its needs.
Is Indian rat python poisonous?
No, Indian rat pythons are non-venomous and do not produce venom. They are constrictors, meaning they subdue their prey by wrapping their bodies about it and squeezing tightly until it stops breathing. Indian rat pythons are not harmful to humans and do not threaten public safety.
What is the best rat snake?
It is difficult to determine the “best” rat snake, as different species may be preferred for various reasons. Here is a list of 20 popular rat snakes, in no particular order:
Corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
Rat snake (Elaphe spp.)
Black rat snake (Pantherophis obsolete)
Grey rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta)
Yellow rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta quadrivittata)
Everglades rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta Rossellini)
Texas rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta lindheimeri)
Speckled rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta obsolete)
Chinese bamboo rat snake (Ptyas korros)
Fox snake (Elaphe vulpina)
Gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer)
Black pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus)
Racer (Coluber spp.)
Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum)
Racerunner (Aspidoscelis spp.)
Whip snake (Dryophiops spp.)
Racerunner (Cnemidophorus spp.)
Racerunner (Haldea spp.)
Racerunner (Cnemidophorus spp.)
Racerunner (Aspidoscelis spp.)
Conclusion
Bamboo rat snakes are non-venomous colubrid snakes native to China and Vietnam. They are slender, agile snakes with long bodies and smooth scales and are typically green or yellow with patterns of brown or black scales. Bamboo rat snakes are known for their ability to climb and are often found in trees and bushes, as well as in agricultural fields and gardens. They are nocturnal and feed on various small mammals, birds, and eggs.
Bamboo rat snakes are considered a vulnerable species due to habitat demolition and overcollection for the pet trade. It is illegal to capture or trade these snakes in some countries. If you are considering keeping a bamboo rat snake as a pet, it is essential to be prepared to provide it with the proper care and habitat to ensure its health and well-being. By providing your bamboo rat snake with suitable habitat and adequate care, you can help it thrive and enjoy a long and healthy life.