Sapa Herping Tour Report 2025
* Sapa – A breathtaking region home to beautiful high-altitude vipers and rat snakes
Species Encounter Statistics
| Name |
Encounter statistics |
|---|---|
| Lycodon chapaensis - Namdong wolf snake | 80% |
| Euprepiophis mandarinus – Mandarin Ratsnake | 60% |
| Protobothrops jerdonii – Jerdon's Pit Viper | 35% |
| Ovophis anitae – Anita’s Pit Viper | 40% |
| Azemiops feae - Fea Viper | 20% |
| Hebius chapaensis – Chapa Keelback | 76% |
| Lycodon meridionalis – Vietnamese Large-toothed Snake | 68% |
| Lycodon chapaensis - Namdong wolf snake | 84% |
| Oreocryptophis porphyraceus vaillanti – Bamboo Rat Snake | 15% |
| Ptyas major – Chinese Green Snake | 90% |
June 13, 2025
On June 18, 2025, our herping tour in Sapa showcased a remarkable variety of reptile species, illustrating the region's ecological richness. We observed the vibrant Gumprecht's Green Pitviper (Trimeresurus gumprechti), whose green scales blended perfectly with the dense vegetation. Another notable encounter was with the Vietnamese Big-toothed Wolf Snake (Lycodon meridionalis), a species known for its distinctive appearance and elusive behavior. Additionally, the Chinese Green Snake (Ptyas major) was spotted, adding to the diversity of our finds. This tour highlighted the exceptional biodiversity of Sapa and offered an exciting glimpse into Vietnam’s unique herpetofauna.
May 25, 2025
On May 25, 2025, the Sapa herping tour offered an unforgettable journey into the region’s diverse reptile wildlife. Among the species encountered, the striking Mandarin Ratsnake (Euprepiophis mandarinus) was the highlight, captivating all with its vivid coloration and elusive behavior. In addition, the tour featured sightings of the venomous Chinese Green Tree Viper (Trimeresurus stejnegeri), the agile Red Mountain Ratsnake (Oreocryptophis porphyraceus), and the formidable Jerdon's Pitviper (Protobothrops jerdonii). This rich variety underscored Sapa’s remarkable ecological tapestry, providing a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s unique herpetofauna.
May 20, 2025
On May 20, 2025, our Sapa herping tour unveiled the remarkable reptilian diversity of the region. Among the highlights was the striking Gumprecht's Green Pitviper (Trimeresurus gumprechti), its vivid green scales blending seamlessly with the lush foliage. We also encountered the elusive Mandarin Ratsnake (Euprepiophis mandarinus), a sleek and elegant serpent known for its stunning pattern. The standout of the day, however, was the rare Vietnam Water Snake (Hebius chapaensis), a species endemic to this area and seldom seen, captivating all with its unique habitat preferences and subtle beauty, making it a memorable discovery on this herping adventure.
April 7, 2025
On April 7, 2025, our Sapa herping tour offered an unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse regions. Among the remarkable species encountered, the Ovophis anitae stood out prominently. This elusive pit viper, known for its cryptic coloration and potent venom, was a highlight of the day, captivating all participants with its unique beauty and ecological significance. In addition, we observed the rare Lycodon chapaensis, a distinctive wolf snake known for its agility and nocturnal habits, alongside the striking Trimeresurus gumprechti, a vibrant green pit viper with a formidable presence. This tour not only showcased the stunning reptilian diversity of Sapa but also deepened our understanding of these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
