Balsan Coral Snake
Micrurus balsasensis
A slender tricolor coral snake endemic to Mexico's Balsas River depression, recognized by narrow black-white-black triads separated by broad red bands.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Balsas River basin, southwestern Mexico
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Overview
The Balsan coral snake is a small elapid restricted to the dry tropical forests of the Balsas River basin in southwestern Mexico. It was described as distinct from more widespread coral snake species based on subtle differences in banding pattern and scale counts.
Like other New World coral snakes, it is fossorial and secretive, spending most of its life underground or beneath surface debris, only rarely encountered by people.
How to identify it
- Classic tricolor pattern: red bands bordered by black rings, separated by narrow white/yellow rings, arranged in black-white-black triads
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small, rounded head with black snout, not distinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Total length rarely exceeds 0.8 m
- Separated from sympatric milk snakes and false coral snakes by having red bands touching black (not yellow) and lacking a robust head
Habitat & range
Endemic to the semi-arid tropical deciduous forest of the Balsas River depression in Michoacán, Guerrero, and Puebla, Mexico. Found at low to moderate elevations, sheltering in leaf litter, loose soil, and under rocks and logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, most active during the rainy season when it emerges after rains, often at night. Feeds primarily on other small elongate reptiles such as skinks and other snakes. Little is documented about its reproduction; likely egg-laying like related species.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Balsan coral snake dangerous?
It is venomous but rarely encountered due to its secretive, burrowing habits, making bites extremely uncommon.
Where does the Balsan coral snake live?
It is endemic to the Balsas River basin of southwestern Mexico.
How can I tell it apart from a milk snake?
In true coral snakes like this one, red bands directly border black bands, whereas mimicking milk snakes typically have red bordered by yellow or white.
Balsan Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Balsan Coral Snake.
