Steppe Ratsnake

The steppe ratsnake is a medium-sized, nonvenomous snake with a grey, tan or olive background and a series of dark brown blotches along the back. Smaller spots mark the sides, and dark facial bars pass through or behind the eye. The head is modestly distinct from the neck and the body is more robust than a slender racer. Pattern varies, but the paired dorsal blotches and facial markings are useful field clues. (Wikipedia, Elaphe dione account)

The species occupies a broad Eurasian range including Mongolia, using steppe, rocky slopes, scrub, farmland and settlement edges. It is largely active by day, climbs competently, and takes rodents, lizards, small birds and eggs, subduing larger prey by constriction. Females lay eggs in warm, protected sites, and snakes hibernate through cold winters. The opened account did not provide a named Mongolian locality or local seasonal dates, so no viewing recommendation is made. (Wikipedia, Elaphe dione account)