Green Keelback
Rhabdophis plumbicolor
Non Venomous
Description
The Green Keelback is a small, colorful non-venomous snake commonly found near water bodies across India. Its olive-green to bright green upper body with keeled (ridged) scales gives it its common name.
This harmless snake feeds primarily on frogs, toads, and tadpoles, making it closely associated with wet habitats. It is diurnal and can often be seen basking near marshes, ponds, and rice paddies during the monsoon season.
When threatened, the Green Keelback may flatten its body, raise its head, and display defensive posturing, but it rarely bites. The striking appearance of some individuals — with bright green coloring and red or orange nuchal spots — makes it one of the more visually interesting small snakes in India.
Natural Habitat
Found throughout India near freshwater habitats ÔÇö marshes, ponds, streams, rice paddies, and wet meadows. Most common during and after the monsoon season. Found from sea level to moderate elevations.