Keeled Rat Snake

Common Name: Keeled Rat Snake
Scientific Name: Ptyas carinata
Source: WC

Adult Size: Typically 150-250 cm total length

Native Range: Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and surrounding regions

Enclosure: Large terrestrial terrarium; minimum around 180 × 60 × 60 cm with branches, hides, and climbing opportunities

Heating: Basking area 30-32 °C; ambient 24-26 °C; night drop around 22 °C

Humidity: 60-75 % with good ventilation and occasional misting

UVB: Low out put UVB

Diet: Carnivorous; small mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles

Water: Fresh water dish available at all times

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Ptyas carinata, commonly called the Keeled Rat Snake, is a large, slender colubrid native to Southeast Asia. It is diurnal and highly active, often hunting small mammals, birds, and reptiles in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, fields, and agricultural areas.

The species is known for its keeled scales, streamlined body, and rapid movement. Colouration is typically brown to olive, sometimes with subtle darker markings, providing camouflage among leaf litter and forest floor debris.

In captivity, Keeled Rat Snakes require spacious enclosures with climbing structures, hides, and consistent access to water. Providing an appropriately sized prey diet and maintaining proper temperature and humidity encourages natural behaviour and overall health.