Banded Wolf Snake
Lycodon subcinctus
A nocturnal Southeast Asian colubrid with bold banding that resembles venomous krait species.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Banded Wolf Snake is a nocturnal colubrid widespread across Southeast Asia, showing bold black-and-white or black-and-yellow banding that closely resembles venomous kraits, likely functioning as a form of mimicry to deter predators.
It is harmless to humans, though its resemblance to dangerous elapids frequently causes it to be misidentified.
How to identify it
- Glossy black body with bold white or yellowish crossbands, more pronounced in juveniles and fading somewhat with age
- Smooth scales
- Head slightly distinct from neck, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.5-0.9 m in length
- Distinguished from kraits by smooth glossy scales (kraits have a distinct enlarged vertebral row) and round pupils versus the krait's more subdued eye
Habitat & range
Found in forests, plantations, and areas near human settlements across Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Strictly nocturnal, foraging on the ground and in low vegetation for lizards, small snakes, and occasionally small mammals. It may bite readily if provoked but is not dangerous. It is oviparous, laying small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Banded Wolf Snake dangerous?
No, it is harmless to humans despite closely resembling venomous kraits.
Why does it look like a krait?
Its bold black-and-white banding is thought to mimic venomous kraits as a defense against predators.
What does it eat?
Lizards, small snakes, and occasionally small mammals.
Where is it found?
Across forests and settled areas of Southeast Asia.
Banded Wolf Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Banded Wolf Snake.
