Scientific Name: Orthriophis taeniurus ridleyi
Family: Colubridae
Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)
Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic
Origin: Southeast Asia (Restricted to caves in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia & Southern Thailand)
Adult Size: 1.8 – 2.4 meters (6 – 8 feet)
Lifespan: 15 – 20 years
Diet: Carnivore (Bats, rodents)
Ridley’s Cave Racer is a specialized, cave-dwelling subspecies of the well-known Beauty Snake (O. taeniurus). Adapted to low-light environments, they lack the bright yellows of the mainland variety. Instead, they feature a "ghostly" coloration: a pale white or cream head that fades into a grey/beige body, ending with a bold black stripe running down the tail. They have large eyes and are excellent climbers.
Notes Habitat: In the wild, they cling to cave walls and snatch flying bats. In captivity, they feed readily on rats and are generally excellent eaters.
Temperament: Like most Beauty Snakes, they are alert and can be fast, but captive individuals often calm down nicely.
Why Source This Species:
Locality Rarity: This specific subspecies is much harder to find than the common Taiwan or Blue Beauty Snake. It appeals to "Locality" collectors.
Ghostly Appearance: The high-contrast "White Head / Black Tail" look is unique and highly prized in the rat snake community.
Impressive Size: They are large, active snakes that make for a grand display animal in a large enclosure.
Malaysia
