Belcher's Sea Snake
Hydrophis belcheri
A fully aquatic sea snake, rarely encountered by people.
- Adult length
- 0.5-1.0 m (1.6-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, including the Philippines and Coral Sea
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Overview
Belcher's Sea Snake is a fully marine species inhabiting coral reef and open water habitats across parts of the tropical Indo-Pacific. Actual human encounters with this species are extremely uncommon.
Like other true sea snakes, it never comes ashore voluntarily and is entirely adapted to a marine existence.
How to identify it
- Pale body with faint, often incomplete greenish or grayish bands, giving it the alternate name faint-banded sea snake
- Laterally compressed, paddle-like tail for swimming
- Small head not markedly distinct from the body
- Nostrils positioned on top of the snout, valved to keep water out
- Distinguished from similar banded sea snakes by faint, incomplete banding pattern
Habitat & range
Inhabits coral reefs and coastal tropical waters across parts of the Indo-Pacific, including areas around the Philippines and the Coral Sea, generally in relatively shallow water.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fully aquatic, rarely if ever encountered on land. Feeds on small reef fish and eels. Gives birth to live young at sea.
Frequently asked questions
Does Belcher's Sea Snake come on land?
No, it is fully aquatic and spends its entire life in the sea.
What does Belcher's Sea Snake eat?
Small reef fish and eels.
Where is Belcher's Sea Snake found?
In tropical Indo-Pacific waters, including around the Philippines and Coral Sea.
Belcher's Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Belcher's Sea Snake.
