In 2019, Lingnan University unveiled its ambitious goal of creating a publicly accessible natural history collection of Hong Kong’s amphibians and reptiles. Since then, they have collected over 500 specimens, representing coverage of over 92% of Hong Kong’s amphibian species, and a significant portion (well over 50%) of its reptile species. The collection aims to document herpetological (amphibian and reptile) biodiversity in Hong Kong, as well as provide a resource in which research into these species may be conducted. Such work has already started, including a genetic case study on Romer’s Tree Frog, an endangered species endemic to Hong Kong.

In support of Lingnan University’s goals, KFBG has donated 150 of its specimens to the collection. These specimens include both common and rare Hong Kong species, ranging from the abundant Chinese Cobra and Common Rat Snake, to the rarely encountered White-browed Keelback and Mountain Keelback. These specimens' origins are varied, with some being donated to KFBG, road-kills and rescued snakes found dead on arrival or euthanised following injury as part of KFBG’s Wild Snake Rescue Project. As a result, the specimens being donated range from as far back as 1994 to just last month!

Today, we draw attention to the snake specimens, highlighting rarely seen snake species, that are now donated to Lingnan University.  You can click the photos to see details.