Persian ratsnake
The Persian ratsnake is a species of medium-sized nonvenomous snake in the subfamily Colubrinae of the family Colubridae. The species is native to Western Asia.Geographic distribution
Zamenis persicus is found in temperate northwestern Iran and Azerbaijan, in the area near the Caspian Sea.Habitat
The preferred natural habitats of Zamenis persicus are forest, shrubland, and rocky areas, at elevations from sea level to.Description
Adults of Zamenis persicus are from up to in total length, and usually jet black or grey with white markings along the lateral portion of the forebody. Males seem to grow larger than females.Taxonomy
Zamenis persicus has habits very similar to Z. situla, and for many years it was considered a subspecies of Elaphe longissima. It was granted full species status in 1984.Behavior
The Persian ratsnake is principally regarded as a terrestrial species, spending most of its time in the leaf litter; however, it is also an agile climber and will mount low brush.Diet
The diet of Zamenis persicus, like that of most colubrids, consists primarily of small mammals, but it may also eat other small reptiles and amphibians.Reproduction
Sexually mature female Persian ratsnakes lay clutches of 4–9 eggs, which hatch after 45–55 days.In captivity
For Zamenis persicus, a hibernation period of 2–3 months is recommended.