Description : An oriental rat snake (Ptyas mucosa) swallows a large Asian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) in Tehatta. The snake's belly is visibly distended after consuming the toad. The Indian rat snake, also known as the Oriental ratsnake, Dhaman, or darash, is a non-venomous, fast-moving predator crucial for controlling pests such as rodents and insects in both urban and rural areas. Often mistaken for a cobra and surrounded by myths, these harmless snakes can grow very large (6–12 ft). These snakes puff their throats and "growl" when threatened and may bite aggressively if cornered. They have a diverse diet, consuming birds, eggs, amphibians, rodents, insects, and even other snakes, making them beneficial to have around. West Bengal, India.