Hanoi Herping Tour Report

April – May 2026 · Hanoi, Vietnam · Viet Herping Field Journal

Hanoi — proof that extraordinary wildlife can be found just beyond the capital’s skyline. Use this introduction to summarize the trip, the habitat, and the strongest encounters from the field.

Field Summary

✓ Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
✓ Season: April – May 2026
✓ Habitat: Wetlands, waterways, canals, forest edges
✓ Focus: Night herping and nocturnal wildlife observation
✓ Highlights: Sunbeam Snake, Murphy’s Mud Snake, Yellow-spotted Keelback
✓ Tour Type: Private guided herping experience

FIELD SESSION

May 21, 2026

Wetlands & Waterways

This herping tour led us into the wetlands and waterways where some of Vietnam’s most fascinating reptiles thrive. The highlight of the night was the Sunbeam Snake (Xenopeltis unicolor), a remarkable species whose scales shimmer with iridescent rainbow colors when caught in the light. We also encountered Murphy’s Mud Snake (Hypsiscopus murphyi) and the Yellow-spotted Keelback (Fowlea flavipunctata), creating an exciting and rewarding evening in the field.

Field Gallery

Xenopeltis unicolor — Sunbeam Snake

helloo

FIELD SESSION

May 13, 2026

Urban-fringe Habitats

This herping tour showcased the diversity of wildlife that emerges after sunset, with several memorable reptile encounters along the way. Among the highlights were the Indo-Chinese Rat Snake (Ptyas korros), an agile and highly adaptable species often seen moving through a variety of habitats, and the Yellow-spotted Keelback (Fowlea flavipunctata), a beautiful water snake commonly found near canals and wetlands. Alongside these standout species, we recorded a range of other reptiles and amphibians, making for an enjoyable night of exploration and wildlife observation.