Chrysopelea ornata ornatissima
(Werner, 1925)
Vernacular names
English : Golden flying snake
French : Serpent volant doré
Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Colubridae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.
Identification
Slender-bodied snake reaching up to 1.30 meters in length with a long tail. Coloration is greenish-yellow with black scale edges and rows of black spots on back. Sometimes red spots are present. Can flatten its ventral surface for gliding.
Range and habitat
This subspecies occurs from south China and Myanmar to Peninsular Malaysia, Greater Sundas and Philippines. Species also found in India and Sri Lanka. Lives in open woodlands, forest edges, gardens, parks, even houses.
Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
Conservation notes : The species has a huge range and can be locally common, it adapts well to living near humans despite persecution. Collected for the trade.