The Philippines boasts a rich and diverse spectrum of snake species, characterized by unique adaptations and ecological significance. This list contains snake species commonly found in the Philippines, from benign rat snakes to venomous king cobras.
Non-Venomous
These are snakes that do not have the ability to inject venom into their prey or defend itself through the use of venomous fangs. These snakes are not a threat to humans. Non-venomous snakes use other methods to catch and subdue their prey, such as constriction or simply overpowering their victims with their physical strength.
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Aplopeltura boa (Blunt-headed Slug-eating Snake)
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Calamaria gervaisii (Gervai's Worm Snake)
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Coelognathus erythrurus erythrurus (Red-tailed Brown Rat Snake)
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Coelognathus erythrurus manillensis (Philippine Brown Rat Snake)
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Dendrelaphis caudolineatus luzonensis (Luzon Bronzeback Snake)
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Dendrelaphis marenae (Maren's Bronzeback Snake)
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Gonyosoma oxycephalum (Red-tailed Green Rat Snake)
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Hologerrhum philippinum (Philippine Stripe-lipped Snake)
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Indotyphlops braminus (Brahminy Blind Snake)
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Lycodon capucinus (Common Wolf Snake)
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Lycodon dumerilii (Duméril's Wolf Snake)
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Malayopython reticulatus (Reticulated Python)
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Ptyas luzonensis (Soft-scaled Mountain Rat Snake)
It is important to note that while non-venomous snakes are not threat to humans, any snakebite should be treated seriously, and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible to prevent complications or allergic reactions.
Mildly Venomous
These snakes possess venom, but their venom is generally not potent or harmful to humans. A bite from a mildly venomous snake may cause localized pain, swelling, and discomfort, but it is usually not life-threatening to humans. However, individual reactions to their venom can vary, and in some cases, people with allergies or sensitivities may experience more severe symptoms.
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Ahaetulla prasina (Asian Vine Snake)
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Boiga cynodon (Dog-toothed Cat Snake)
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Boiga dendrophila divergens (Mangrove Snake)
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Boiga dendrophila latifasciata (Mangrove Snake)
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Boiga dendrophila levitoni (Mangrove Snake)
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Boiga dendrophila multicincta (Mangrove Snake)
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Boiga drapiezii (White-spotted Cat Snake)
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Boiga philippina (Tawny Cat-eyed Snake)
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Cerberus rynchops (Dog-faced Water Snake)
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Chrysopelea paradisi (Paradise Flying Snake)
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Dryophiops philippina (Philippine Whip Snake)
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Psammodynastes pulverulentus (Common Mock Viper)
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Rhabdophis auriculata (White-lined Water Snake)
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Rhabdophis lineatus (Zigzag-lined Water Snake)
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Rhabdophis spilogaster (Northern Water Snake)
It's important to note that while mildly venomous snakes are generally less dangerous than highly venomous species, any snakebite should be treated seriously, and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible to prevent complications or allergic reactions.
Highly Venomous
Highly venomous snakes are a group of snakes that possess potent venom, capable of causing severe or even life-threatening effects when injected into humans. Individuals who are bitten by these snakes should seek immediate medical attention and appropriate antivenom treatment whenever available to minimize the effects of the venom.
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Hemibungarus calligaster (Barred Coral Snake)
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Hydrophis semperi (Lake Taal Sea Snake)
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Naja philippinensis (Northern Philippine Cobra)
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Naja samarensis (Southern Philippine Cobra / Samar Cobra)
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Naja sumatrana (Equatorial Spitting Cobra)
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Ophiophagus hannah (King Cobra)
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Trimeresurus flavomaculatus (Philippine Pit Viper)
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Trimeresurus mcgregori (Batanes Pit Viper)
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Tropidolaemus philippensis (South Philippine Temple Pit Viper)
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Tropidolaemus subannulatus (North Philippine Temple Pit Viper)