© 林孫鋒(Lin Sun Fong) / CC BY-SA 4.0King Ratsnake
The King Ratsnake, known in Japanese as Shuuda, is a large colubrid snake native to southern China, Taiwan, and nearby regions. Adults typically reach 120 to 250 cm in length, with females growing larger than males. Its glossy scales and confident bearing make it a striking snake, and it is also known for preying on other snakes. When threatened, it releases a powerful, foul-smelling secretion from its cloaca, which is the origin of its Japanese name, literally meaning "stinking snake." Little documentation exists on captive lifespan, and the species is described as having a fierce temperament. Because of its size and strength, this species is considered suitable only for experienced keepers, and prior snake-keeping experience is recommended before bringing one home.
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Apply as a breederKing Ratsnake key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- Few data on lifespan in captivity
- Size
- 120-250 cm total length (females larger)
- Diet
- Carnivore (rodents, birds, eggs, lizards, frogs, snakes)
- Housing
- A powerful snake exceeding 2 m that is active on the ground and in trees; use a large, sturdy, escape-proof enclosure.
- Diet & Feeding
- Wild animals eat rodents, birds, eggs, lizards, frogs and other snakes; feed rodents in captivity and never house it with other snakes.
- Temperament
- It is considered bad-tempered, hissing and inflating when threatened. It often releases a foul, hard-to-remove secretion when picked up.
- Health & Cautions
- The pattern changes greatly from juvenile to adult, so do not mistake this for a health problem.
- Notes
- Japanese populations on the Senkakus and Yonaguni are Endangered on the national Red List; avoid collecting or trading wild Japanese animals. Never release a captive animal into the wild.
About King Ratsnake
The King Ratsnake (Shuuda) is a large colubrid from southern China and Taiwan, reaching 120-250 cm as an adult. Known for preying on other snakes and its pungent defensive musk, it is an advanced-keeper species.
7 things to know before welcoming a King Ratsnake
1Space for a Large Snake
Adults can reach 120 to 250 cm in length, with females growing especially large. Choose an enclosure sized for its adult length, with a secure, escape-proof lid.
2Escape-Proofing Matters
This is a strong snake that can push through loose lids or small gaps to escape. Regularly check the enclosure's seams and latches to keep it secure.
3Known for a Fierce Temperament
This species is described as fierce, hissing and inflating its body as a threat when it feels in danger. It readily releases a foul-smelling secretion when lifted, so keep handling to a minimum and do it carefully only when necessary.
4A Snake-Eating Species
In the wild, this species is known to prey on other snakes. Avoid housing it with other snakes of any species and keep it individually.
5A Strong Defensive Odor
When threatened, it releases a powerful, foul-smelling secretion from its cloaca, the origin of its Japanese name meaning "stinking snake." Keep handling calm and avoid startling it.
6Limited Lifespan Data
There isn't much documented information on captive lifespans for this species. Plan for long-term care and keep close track of its health over time.
7Not a Beginner Snake
The King Ratsnake is considered suitable for experienced keepers. Prior experience with other colubrid species is recommended before taking one on.
Frequently asked questions about King Ratsnake
- Q.Is the King Ratsnake suitable for beginners?
- A.No, it's considered an advanced-keeper species. Because of its large size and variable temperament, prior experience with other snakes is recommended.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.Adults typically reach 120 to 250 cm in length, with females growing larger than males. Plan your enclosure size around its adult length.
- Q.How long do they live in captivity?
- A.There isn't much documented data on captive lifespan for this species. Regular health monitoring is important for long-term care.
- Q.Can it be housed with other snakes?
- A.No, this species is known to prey on other snakes, so it should be kept alone rather than housed with other snakes.
- Q.Why is it called the "stinking snake" in Japanese?
- A.When threatened, it releases a strong, foul-smelling secretion from its cloaca. This defensive habit is the origin of its Japanese name.
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