Chinese Mountain Snake

Plagiopholis styani is a small non-venomous snake, reaching a total length (including tail) of up to 40 cm (16 in). Its upper head, body and tail are red-brown, olive-brown, or green-brown, with flecks of pink or black pigment on each scale, especially for those on the flanks of body. The upper body and tail have a spotted pattern of black or light yellow. There is a dark and thick cross band on nape, reflected in its Chinese name, Fujian neck-blotched snake (Chinese: 福建頸斑蛇).

Plagiopholis styani occurs in areas of montane and bamboo forest, including caves. It is a nocturnal snake that eats mainly earthworms and arthropods. It uses its head to burrow. Females produce clutches of 5–11 eggs in summer.