Burmese Krait
Bungarus wanghaotingi
A black-and-white banded krait of Myanmar and adjacent southern China, closely related to the Many-banded Krait, carrying dangerously potent neurotoxic venom.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.3 m (3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Myanmar and adjacent southern China
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Overview
The Burmese Krait is a krait species found primarily in Myanmar and neighboring parts of southern China, historically confused with or considered a form of the Many-banded Krait before being recognized as a distinct taxon. It shares the classic black-and-white banded appearance typical of this venomous genus.
Its nocturnal habits and preference for lowland habitats near water and agricultural areas bring it into occasional contact with rural communities.
How to identify it
- Black body crossed by narrow white bands, similar to other banded kraits
- Smooth scales with a distinctive enlarged row of vertebral scales
- Triangular cross-section to the body, more pronounced than in cobras
- Cylindrical head barely distinct from the neck, with round pupils
- Best distinguished from close relatives by range and subtle scale counts
Habitat & range
Found in lowland forest, agricultural areas, and near water bodies across Myanmar and adjacent parts of southern China, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal predator that hunts other snakes, small mammals, and amphibians after dark, sheltering by day in burrows or under cover. Lays eggs. Bites to humans, while uncommon, can be medically serious due to potent neurotoxic venom.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Burmese Krait dangerous?
Yes, its venom is strongly neurotoxic and can be life-threatening without prompt medical care.
Where is it found?
Myanmar and adjacent parts of southern China.
How can it be identified?
By its black body with narrow white crossbands and enlarged vertebral scale row, typical of banded kraits.
What does it eat?
Primarily other snakes, along with small mammals and amphibians.
Burmese Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Burmese Krait.
