Adorned Coral Snake
Micrurus ornatissimus
A strikingly patterned Amazonian coral snake whose scientific name, ornatissimus, reflects its especially vivid tricolor banding.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.1 m (2.3-3.6 ft)
- Range
- Western Amazon Basin (Peru, Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia)
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Overview
The Adorned coral snake is found across the western Amazon Basin, where its especially bright and well-defined tricolor pattern gave rise to its scientific epithet ornatissimus, meaning 'most ornate.'
Like other Micrurus species, it is a secretive, largely fossorial snake that relies on potent neurotoxic venom to subdue prey, primarily other snakes.
How to identify it
- Vivid red, black, and white/yellow rings forming bold, well-defined triads
- Smooth, glossy scales giving a polished appearance
- Small black-capped head, not distinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Moderate to fairly long body for the genus
- Distinguished from similar Amazonian coral snakes by the crispness and contrast of its banding
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland tropical rainforest across the western Amazon Basin in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil. Found from near sea level to lower foothill elevations, hiding in leaf litter, under logs, and in loose soil.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and nocturnal to crepuscular in activity. Preys mainly on other snakes and elongate reptiles. Egg-laying, with reproduction linked to the humid rainy season in Amazonian forests.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the Adorned coral snake?
Its scientific name ornatissimus means 'most ornate,' referencing its especially bold and vivid banding.
Where is it found?
Across the western Amazon Basin in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it has neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes but rarely bites due to its secretive habits.
Adorned Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Adorned Coral Snake.
