Allen's Coral Snake
Micrurus alleni
A tricolor Central American coral snake found in humid lowland forests near the Caribbean coast.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama
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Overview
Allen's coral snake is a moderately small elapid restricted to the Caribbean lowlands of southern Central America. It shares the tricolor ring pattern common among American coral snakes, and like its relatives is a shy, ground-dwelling species rarely seen in the open.
Its limited range and forest-dependent habits make it less frequently documented than some of its more widespread relatives.
How to identify it
- Alternating triads of black, red, and pale (white or yellow) rings encircling the body
- Black snout, sometimes followed by a pale band
- Smooth, glossy scalation with a cylindrical body form
- Small head with round pupils, not distinct from the neck
- Distinguished from co-occurring coral snakes by subtle differences in ring counts and proportions
Habitat & range
Occurs in humid lowland and premontane forest of the Caribbean slope, generally below 1,000 m elevation, favoring leaf litter and moist soil near streams.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and largely fossorial, most active at night or during humid conditions. Feeds primarily on other snakes and elongate reptiles. Lays eggs for reproduction.
Frequently asked questions
Is Allen's coral snake dangerous to humans?
It is venomous, but its secretive habits make bites very rare.
Where does it occur?
In Caribbean lowland forests of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama.
What does it eat?
Mainly other snakes and slender reptiles.
How is it distinguished from similar coral snakes?
By subtle differences in ring pattern and counts, best confirmed by a specialist.
Allen's Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Allen's Coral Snake.
