Banded Malaysian Coral Snake
Calliophis intestinalis
A small, slender coral snake of Southeast Asian forests, marked with fine dark crossbands and a red underside, that spends most of its life hidden underground.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Borneo)
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Overview
The banded Malaysian coral snake is a diminutive elapid found through much of maritime Southeast Asia. Despite its small size, it possesses venom and is classified as venomous, though bites to humans are rare given its secretive, fossorial nature.
It is one of several small Calliophis coral snakes in the region that are seldom seen due to their burrowing lifestyle and largely nocturnal activity.
How to identify it
- Small, slender, cylindrical body
- Brownish to olive dorsal coloration with narrow dark crossbands
- Bright red or orange-red venter, often visible when the tail is raised
- Small, indistinct head
- Round pupils
Its diminutive size and thin banding pattern distinguish it from larger, more brightly ringed coral snake species in the region.
Habitat & range
Found in lowland forest, forest edge, and cultivated areas across the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and Borneo. It is fossorial, living in loose soil, leaf litter, and under decaying logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and rarely surface-active during the day. When disturbed, it may curl its tail to display the bright red underside as a warning signal. Diet consists largely of small snakes and other elongate reptiles. Reproduction is oviparous, with small clutches of eggs typical of the genus.
Frequently asked questions
Is the banded Malaysian coral snake venomous?
Yes, though it is small and bites to humans are uncommon.
How big does the banded Malaysian coral snake get?
It is a small species, usually 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft) long.
Where is the banded Malaysian coral snake found?
It occurs across the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.
Is the banded Malaysian coral snake often seen?
No, it is fossorial and nocturnal, making sightings uncommon.
Banded Malaysian Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Banded Malaysian Coral Snake.
