Cauca Coral Snake
Micrurus sangilensis
A slender tricolor coral snake endemic to Colombia, patterned in classic red-black-yellow rings.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-0.9 m (2-3 ft)
- Range
- Santander region, northern Colombia
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Overview
The Cauca Coral Snake is one of many similarly patterned Micrurus species native to Colombia, distinguished mainly by subtle differences in ring counts and proportions. It occupies a relatively restricted range within the northern Colombian Andes.
Like other coral snakes, it is secretive and fossorial, rarely encountered by people despite its bright warning coloration.
How to identify it
- Slender body with tricolor rings of red, black, and narrower yellow/white borders
- Black snout
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Round pupils
- Separated from similar sympatric coral snakes by precise ring counts and scale row details, which typically require close examination
Habitat & range
Found in humid premontane and montane forest within its restricted Colombian range. Spends most time hidden under leaf litter, logs, and loose soil.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, most active at dusk and after rain. Feeds primarily on other snakes and elongate reptiles. Reproduction is oviparous, though details are poorly documented.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cauca Coral Snake dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous, though bites to humans are rare due to its secretive, burrowing habits.
Where does it live?
It is endemic to a limited area of northern Colombia.
How can it be identified?
By its red-black-yellow ring pattern and black snout, typical of Micrurus coral snakes, distinguished from relatives by ring counts.
Cauca Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cauca Coral Snake.
