Olive Keelback

The Olive Keelback is a semi-aquatic, non-venomous water snake commonly found near freshwater bodies across India. Its uniform olive-brown upper body and keeled scales make it easily identifiable among Indian water snakes.

This medium-sized snake (up to 80 cm) is an excellent swimmer and diver, feeding primarily on fish and frogs. It is often found in and around ponds, irrigation canals, and rice paddies. Unlike the similar-looking Checkered Keelback, the Olive Keelback has a more uniform coloration.

When captured or threatened, the Olive Keelback may release a foul-smelling musk from its cloacal glands as a defense mechanism. It is harmless to humans and plays an important role in aquatic ecosystem health by helping control fish and amphibian populations.