Amazonian Coral Snake
Micrurus spixii
A large tricolor coral snake of the Amazon rainforest with broad black, red, and white/yellow ring triads.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.4 m (2.6-4.6 ft)
- Range
- Amazon Basin of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia
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Overview
The Amazonian coral snake is one of the larger and more robust members of the genus Micrurus, occurring widely across the Amazon Basin. It shows the classic tricolor ringed pattern shared with many New World coral snakes, though ring proportions and counts vary geographically among its recognized subspecies.
Despite its potent venom, it is a reclusive, ground-dwelling snake that avoids confrontation and spends much of its life hidden in forest leaf litter and burrows.
How to identify it
- Body encircled by triads of black rings separated by red rings, with narrow white or yellow rings bordering the black
- Black snout, often with a pale band just behind it
- Smooth scales and a cylindrical body of moderate thickness
- Small head not distinct from the neck; round pupils
- Larger and more heavy-bodied than many other Micrurus species, aiding identification
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland tropical rainforest of the Amazon Basin, including terra firme and seasonally flooded forest, generally below 500 m elevation. It shelters under logs, leaf litter, and in burrows.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Mostly nocturnal and fossorial, surfacing at night or after rain. Preys on other snakes, amphisbaenians, and lizards. Reproduces by laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Amazonian coral snake venomous?
Yes, it possesses potent neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes.
How can it be recognized?
By its broad black-red-black ring triads bordered by narrow white or yellow rings, and relatively large size for the genus.
Where is it found?
Throughout the Amazon Basin in Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia.
Is it commonly encountered?
No, it is secretive and fossorial, rarely seen despite being widespread.
Amazonian Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Amazonian Coral Snake.
