Bogert's Coral Snake
Micrurus bogerti
A rare, range-restricted Mexican coral snake named for herpetologist Charles Bogert, found only along the Oaxacan Pacific coast.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Pacific coastal Oaxaca, Mexico
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Overview
Bogert's coral snake is a poorly known, range-restricted species found along the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. It honors Charles Bogert, an influential American herpetologist of the 20th century.
Due to its narrow known distribution and secretive habits, it is one of the least-documented Mexican coral snakes, with few specimens recorded since its description.
How to identify it
- Red, black, and white/yellow tricolor rings in repeating triads
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small black-capped head, indistinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Small body size, generally under 0.8 m
- Distinguished from other Oaxacan coral snakes by subtle ring proportions and restricted range
Habitat & range
Known from a limited area of Pacific coastal Oaxaca, Mexico, inhabiting tropical deciduous forest and forest-edge habitats. Shelters in leaf litter, loose soil, and under surface debris.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Presumed fossorial and secretive like other Micrurus, with activity likely concentrated around the rainy season. Diet is thought to consist mainly of other snakes and lizards. Reproductive biology is poorly documented due to its rarity in collections.
Frequently asked questions
Who was this species named after?
Charles Bogert, an influential 20th-century American herpetologist.
Where is it found?
Along the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, in a relatively restricted range.
Is much known about its behavior?
No, it is poorly documented due to its rarity and secretive, fossorial lifestyle.
Bogert's Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Bogert's Coral Snake.
