With its striking pattern of glossy black scales adorned with bold yellow crossbands, the Luzon Mangrove Snake (Boiga dendrophila divergens) is one of the Philippines’ most visually stunning reptiles. This large, robust snake moves comfortably both on the ground and in the trees of the forests and mangroves it inhabits.
A Nocturnal Hunter
The Luzon Mangrove Snake is primarily nocturnal. It has a broad head with large eyes and vertical pupils. This snake hunts birds, small mammals, and reptiles.
A Philippine Original
This subspecies is endemic to the Philippines, found across Luzon—including the provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Quezon, Sorsogon, and Rizal—as well as the Babuyan Islands (Calayan) and Polillo. The snake lives in lowland tropical forests and mangrove forests.
Conservation Challenges
The Luzon Mangrove Snake faces threats from habitat loss and the illegal animal trade. Protecting the lowland forests and mangroves where this species lives is essential for its survival.
Discover Philippine Biodiversity
Want to learn more about the incredible wildlife of the Philippines? Visit the Makiling Botanic Gardens and explore the natural heritage that makes our country a biodiversity hotspot.