Is the Rhinoceros Rat Snake regulated under CITES?

The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is not subject to CITES.

Is this species suitable for beginners?

The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is generally considered a species for intermediate keepers. If you're new to keeping snakes, it's a good idea to build some foundational experience before taking one on.

Adults reach a total length of about 100 to 160 cm. The enclosure needs to be sized up, with attention to vertical space, as it grows.

Where does its name come from?

It's named for the long, scale-covered, flexible appendage at the tip of its snout, which resembles a rhinoceros's horn. This feature is unique to the species.

Is it an easily tamed, friendly snake?

It tends to be alert and may act defensively, including striking, when startled. Individual temperament varies, so it's best to approach handling patiently as it settles in.

Rhinoceros Rat Snake

The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is an arboreal colubrid native to Asia, prized for the long, scale-covered, flexible horn projecting from the tip of its snout — the feature that gives the species its name, evoking a rhino's horn. A thin black line runs from the pointed snout through the eye to the neck, while the throat and upper lip scales carry a pale greenish-white hue. Slender and agile, this snake is a natural climber that spends much of its time among branches. Its striking looks have made it increasingly popular, but since it's generally considered a species for keepers with some prior snake-keeping experience, it's worth building up confidence before taking one on.

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About Rhinoceros Rat Snake

Meet the Rhinoceros Rat Snake, known for its horn-like snout appendage, slender arboreal build, and striking black eye-line. Explore its traits, care basics, and frequently asked questions.

7 things to know before welcoming a Rhinoceros Rat Snake

1High-Rise Enclosure Setup
Being highly arboreal, height matters more than floor space when setting up its enclosure. Provide climbing branches and vertical space so it can move naturally up and down.
2A Signature Snout Appendage
The rhino-horn-like appendage at the tip of the snout is this species' defining trait. It's covered in the same scales as the rest of the body and needs no special care beyond routine handling.
3Temperature and Humidity
As an arboreal colubrid, it tends to prefer moderate humidity. Set up a temperature gradient in the enclosure and use a water dish or misting to keep humidity from dropping too low.
4A Somewhat Skittish Temperament
This species tends to be alert and may act defensively, including striking, when startled. Give it time to settle in and avoid forcing handling before it's calm.
5Feeding Basics
Like other rat snakes, it preys on small animals in the wild. Offer appropriately sized food at a reasonable frequency matched to the individual's size.
6The Enclosure Grows With It
Adults reach a total length of about 100 to 160 cm, so the enclosure needs to be sized up as it grows. Pay particular attention to vertical space as it matures.
7Best Suited to Intermediate Keepers
The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is generally considered a species for intermediate keepers. Some prior experience with snake care will make getting started smoother.

Frequently asked questions about Rhinoceros Rat Snake

Q.Is the Rhinoceros Rat Snake regulated under CITES?: A.The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is not subject to CITES.
Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?: A.The Rhinoceros Rat Snake is generally considered a species for intermediate keepers. If you're new to keeping snakes, it's a good idea to build some foundational experience before taking one on.
Q.How big does it get?: A.Adults reach a total length of about 100 to 160 cm. The enclosure needs to be sized up, with attention to vertical space, as it grows.
Q.Where does its name come from?: A.It's named for the long, scale-covered, flexible appendage at the tip of its snout, which resembles a rhinoceros's horn. This feature is unique to the species.
Q.Is it an easily tamed, friendly snake?: A.It tends to be alert and may act defensively, including striking, when startled. Individual temperament varies, so it's best to approach handling patiently as it settles in.