Paignton Zoo is home to one rhinoceros ratsnake, you can find them in their new home in Tropical Trails.
Rhinoceros ratsnakes are found in the lush forests and mountainous regions of northern Vietnam and parts of southern China. They prefer subtropical climates with dense vegetation and high humidity. They eat a variety of prey including rodents, birds, and other small vertebrates.
One of the rhinoceros ratsnake’s most distinctive features is the scaly “horn” on its snout – a trait that gives the species its name. Although it looks dramatic, this feature is made of soft tissue and its function is still a bit of a mystery. It may play a role in mating displays or camouflage.
Interesting facts!
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These slender snakes can grow up to 1.8 metres in length! Despite their size, they are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans.
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Juvenile rhinoceros ratsnakes are typically grey, but as they mature, their colour transforms into a striking metallic green – a clever way to blend in with the leaves of their forest home.
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Rhinoceros ratsnakes are primarily arboreal, spending a lot of time in trees, though they will also hunt on the ground. They are generally shy and non-aggressive, relying on their camouflage to avoid predators.
Conservation
While they are not currently listed as endangered, rhinoceros ratsnakes are sometimes captured for the exotic pet trade, and their forest habitats are under threat from logging and development. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and responsible captive breeding.