Common Name: Red Tailed Racer (Red-Tailed Green Ratsnake)
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Scientific Name: Gonyosoma oxycephalum
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Family: Colubridae
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Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)
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Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic (Note: Can deliver a painful defensive bite, but possesses no venom)
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines)
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Adult Size: 1.5 – 2.4 meters (5 – 8 feet)
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Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
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Diet: Carnivore (Rodents, birds, bats)
The Red Tailed Racer is a striking arboreal snake renowned for its vivid coloration. The body is typically a bright, thick apple-green (sometimes olive), capable of inflating vertically to look larger when threatened. True to its name, its tail is distinctively colored, ranging from rusty red to silvery-grey, contrasting sharply with the green body. They possess a distinct blue tongue and large eyes, giving them an alert, intelligent appearance.
Notes: This is a fast-moving, high-energy colubrid. They are strictly arboreal and require tall terrariums with plenty of branches.
Behavior: They are known for being defensive and "nippy," often striking readily when cornered and inflating their neck puff-adder style. They are best viewed as display animals rather than handling pets.
Why Source This Species:
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Vivid Display: Their bright green color is unmatched among common rat snakes, making them a centerpiece for planted, naturalistic vivariums.
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Active Hunter: Unlike sedentary pythons, these are alert snakes that are often active during the day, providing more viewing opportunities for keepers.
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Classic Asian Species: A staple in the exotic reptile trade, popular for their dinosaur-like appearance and impressive adult size.
