Elaphe bimaculata

Taxobox |

image_caption =
name = Twin-spotted ratsnake
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Reptilia
ordo = Squamata
subordo = Serpentes
familia = Colubridae
genus = "Elaphe"
species = "E. bimaculata"
binomial = "Elaphe bimaculata"
binomial_authority = (Schmidt, 1925)

"Elaphe bimaculata", the "twin-spotted ratsnake" or "Chinese cornsnake", is a small ratsnake (60–80 cm) found in China. It occurs as both blotched and striped phase, with the blotched type being the more common or "typical" phase. Some specimens even exhibit a pattern of half blotched, half striped where the anterior half is usually blotched and the posterior half striped. They are found in many habitats ranging from the edge of forest to cultivated areas and seem to like cooler temperatures and higher humidity. A secretive snake that prefers smaller food items such as young to half grown mice. "E. bimaculata" has been known to breed at different times of the year, usually with 3-10 eggs being laid in late spring, these requiring 35-48 days of incubation. Provide with a period of 2-3 months hibernation. Females are known to grow larger and heavier than males.

References

External links

* [http://www.ratsnakes.com/images/Ebimaculata1_f.jpgimage]