Rewritten Article:

The Tiger rat snake, scientifically known as Spilotes pullatus, is⁣ a large nonvenomous colubrid snake with a slender⁤ and laterally compressed body. Its head ⁣is easily distinguishable‌ from its neck and features a moderate-sized eye ⁢with a circular pupil. The snake’s dorsal side is predominantly black with yellow spots that form crossbands, while the tip of its ‌snout is yellow. The coloration of the head shields ⁤can ​vary,‍ with some being mostly⁣ yellow, ⁤black, or⁢ a combination of both, ​but the sutures ​between the ‌shields are always black. On​ the ventral side, the snake is yellow with​ irregular black⁤ crossbands.

Scientific Name: Spilotes pullatus
Distribution: Central Mexico to southern Brazil along the Atlantic coast
Average Size: 2.4 meters (8‍ feet)
Lifespan:‍ 15 years or more
Difficulty: Intermediate

The following information has been provided⁤ by Joe Monahan. For more‍ information and photos on caring for ‌Spilotes pullatus, please visit his website for captive care and breeding information.

Housing
When newly hatched, Spilotes pullatus‍ measure around 0.5 meters (1.6 feet) in length.​ For the first year of their lives, a⁢ suitable enclosure is a 40-gallon breeder tank, which measures 0.9 x ​0.45 ‌x 0.4 meters (3 x​ 1.5 x 1.3⁤ feet).

Distribution and Habitat
The Tiger rat ​snake can be​ found in Central Mexico to southern ‍Brazil along the Atlantic coast. ​They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical forests,​ as⁢ well as savannas and grasslands. They are also ​known to inhabit agricultural areas and can even be found in urban ⁢areas.

Physical Characteristics
The Tiger rat snake is a large snake, with an average size of 2.4 meters (8 feet). They have ‌a slender and laterally compressed body, which allows them ⁢to ‍move quickly and efficiently⁣ through their environment. Their head is ​distinct from their neck and⁤ features ​a moderate-sized​ eye with a round pupil. The coloration of their dorsal side is predominantly black with yellow spots ⁢that form crossbands, while the tip ⁣of ‌their ⁤snout is yellow.​ The head shields may vary in color, but the sutures between them are always ⁤black.⁤ On the ventral side, the snake is yellow with irregular black crossbands.

Behavior and Diet
Tiger rat snakes are diurnal,⁣ meaning they are most active during the day. They are also known to be arboreal, spending‌ a significant amount of time in trees. They are excellent‌ climbers and can even swim if necessary. Their ⁤diet consists mainly ​of rodents, birds,⁢ and ‌lizards.

Caring‍ for Spilotes pullatus
In ​captivity, it is essential to provide a suitable and ​spacious enclosure for the⁤ snake to thrive. A 40-gallon breeder tank is recommended for the first year, but as they grow, a⁣ larger enclosure will be ​necessary. The tank should have branches and‌ other climbing structures, as well as a water​ dish for the snake to soak in. The temperature should ⁤be ⁢kept between 26-30°C (80-86°F) with a basking ‌spot of 32-35°C ⁢(90-95°F). Humidity should be maintained at 60-70%. They should be fed appropriately ​sized prey every 7-10 days.

In⁣ conclusion, ​the⁤ Tiger rat snake, or Spilotes pullatus, is a fascinating and unique snake⁤ species that requires intermediate care. With the right housing, diet, ⁢and environment, they can live for 15‌ years or more in captivity. If you are interested in owning one of⁢ these beautiful snakes, be sure to do thorough research and consult with an experienced reptile‌ keeper for ⁣proper care ‌and handling techniques.