Tam Dao National Park Herping Tour - June 2024
Slithering Success in Tam Dao!
My recent herping adventure in Tam Dao National Park this June was a resounding success! The park's diverse habitat proved to be a haven for reptiles, particularly snakes.
Tam Dao National Park stunning beauty
The large streams in Tam Dao NP are the perfect places to find interesting reptile species.
Serpent Sightings
Over the course of the trip, we encountered a fascinating array of five snake species. Here's a closer look:
Ahaetulla nasuta (Vine Snake): Keep an eye out for these slender, emerald green marvels! They're commonly spotted curled around branches, camouflaged amongst the foliage.
Xenopeltis unicolor (Striped Snake): This fossorial snake, also known as the Brahminy Blind Snake, is a burrowing expert. We were lucky to spot one slithering across the forest floor.
Coelognathus radiata (Radiant Racer): This brightly colored racer with a black and yellow striped pattern is a sight to behold.
Pareas margaritophorus (Asian Trinket Snake): A small but beautiful snake, the Trinket Snake boasts a glossy brown body with a light-colored stripe running down its back.
Oligodon sp. (Kukri Snake): We spotted a representative of the Oligodon genus, commonly known as Kukri snakes due to their hooked fangs. Identifying them to species level often requires a closer examination, so this one remains an Oligodon sp. for now.
And many other interesting reptiles and amphibians species
Habitat Highlights
The varied terrain of Tam Dao National Park offered a wealth of microhabitats for our reptilian targets. We explored everything from dense, humid forests to rocky streams, each area teeming with potential herping opportunities.
A Memorable Herping Experience
This Tam Dao herping trip was a fantastic opportunity to observe a variety of snake species in their natural environment. It was a great reminder of the rich biodiversity lurking within this beautiful national park.
Expert guides ensured guests safely interacted with a variety of snake species, creating unforgettable photo opportunities with their favorites. Laughter filled the air as friends enjoyed this unique experience together.
Conservation Connection
It's important to remember that reptile populations around the world face various threats. By participating in responsible ecotourism experiences like this, we can help support conservation efforts in Tam Dao National Park and ensure these fascinating creatures continue to thrive.
