Annellated Coral Snake
Micrurus annellatus
An Andean foothill coral snake with distinctly ringed (annulated) black-and-red banding along its body.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Andean foothills of Peru, Bolivia, and adjacent Brazil
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Overview
The Annellated coral snake occupies the foothill forests along the eastern slopes of the Andes in Peru and Bolivia, extending into adjacent lowland Brazil. Its name refers to the ring-like (annulated) arrangement of its color bands.
It is a member of the diverse South American Micrurus radiation, sharing the family's characteristic neurotoxic venom and secretive, fossorial lifestyle.
How to identify it
- Distinct rings of red and black, sometimes with narrow pale interspaces, encircling the body
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small head with black cap, indistinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Moderate length, generally under 1 m
- Differentiated from similar Andean coral snakes by ring width and count along the body
Habitat & range
Found in humid foothill and lower montane forests along the eastern Andes in Peru and Bolivia, as well as adjacent lowland Amazonian Brazil. Occurs from lowland up to mid-elevation forest, sheltering in leaf litter and under logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, generally nocturnal or crepuscular. Diet consists mainly of other snakes and elongate lizards. Reproduces by laying eggs, typically during the humid season.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'annellated' mean in its name?
It refers to the ring-like banding pattern encircling the snake's body.
Where does this species occur?
In Andean foothill forests of Peru and Bolivia, extending into adjacent Brazil.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it carries neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes, but is shy and rarely encountered.
Annellated Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Annellated Coral Snake.
