Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed large population, it occurs in a number of protected areas, and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.

This species is distributed in northern Myanmar; China (Anhui, Beijing, Chongqing, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Tianjin, Xizang, Yunnan, Hainan, Taiwan, and Zhejiang), Lao PDR, India (Arunachal Pradesh); Viet Nam. In Viet Nam it has been recorded from Lao Cai (Sa Pa), Lang Son (Mau Son), Vinh Phuc (Tam Dao), Ha Tinh (Huong Son) (Orlov et al., 2000; Nguyen et al., 2009). It has been recorded from 200 to 1,600m asl.

This is a relatively rare species. There are estimated to be 3,100,000 individuals in China (State Forestry Administration of China, 2009). Wang and Xie (2009) indicate that this species has declined by 30% over the previous ten years, but further details are needed to confirm this decline.

This species is largely associated with forest habitats both tropical and temperate forests. It can also be found in grasslands and shrubland. In Tam Dao species found in northern part of mountain range in the karst area; 1400 –1500 m (Orlov et al. 2000, Nguyen et al. 2009). It is generally not found in rural areas. It is an oviparous species. Diet largely consists of small vertebrates.

Habitat destruction may represent a threat to this species over parts of its wide range; although it is very widespread, its distribution within this area might be fragmented. There may be localized threats from overharvesting for food or the pet trade.

This species is quite popular as a pet and, like most large snakes in China and Southeast Asia, is harvested for food.

This species has been successfully bred in captivity in low numbers. It is present in many protected areas. Further research is needed into the use and trade of this species.