Residents of Barangay Barangiran in Alamada turned over a sub-adult dog-toothed cat snake to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Cotabato on 22 January 2026.
According to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Midsayap, the “Boiga cynodon” was surrendered through the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Alamada in coordination with the CENRO Midsayap Wildlife Team.
Authorities said the snake was found inside a residential house in Barangay Barangiran, prompting its safe capture and immediate turnover to environmental officials.
A veterinary assessment showed the animal was in good health, displaying a distinct body pattern, appropriate body mass for its size, excellent muscle tone, and a post-meal condition at the time it was surrendered. No injuries or signs of distress were observed during the examination.
The dog-toothed cat snake is a mildly venomous, nocturnal species characterized by vertically elliptical pupils, a rounded snout, and prominent front teeth resembling fangs.
The species is indigenous to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia and is classified as an Other Threatened Species (OTS) under DENR Administrative Order 2019-09. While it typically avoids human settlements, authorities noted that it may be drawn to poultry and caged birds.
DENR officials emphasized that the dog-toothed cat snake plays an important ecological role by helping control pest populations and supporting biodiversity.