Choco Coral Snake
Micrurus dumerilii
A tricolor coral snake of the biodiverse Choco rainforest region on Colombia's Pacific coast.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.0 m (2.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Choco region of western Colombia and Ecuador
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Overview
The Choco Coral Snake inhabits one of the wettest and most biodiverse rainforest regions in the world. It shares the bright ringed warning coloration common to Micrurus species.
Its secretive, ground-dwelling lifestyle keeps it hidden from most visitors to its rainforest habitat.
How to identify it
- Bold red-black-yellow ring bands encircling the body
- Black snout extending onto the head
- Cylindrical, slender build
- Round pupils
- Told apart from lookalikes by triad patterning and regional occurrence
Habitat & range
Lives in humid lowland rainforest of the Choco biogeographic region along the Pacific coast of Colombia and Ecuador, typically in leaf litter and under logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, most active during humid nights. Preys on small snakes and lizards. Lays eggs like other coral snakes.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Choco Coral Snake venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous elapid, though bites are uncommon given its hidden lifestyle.
What region is it named for?
The Choco rainforest region of western Colombia and Ecuador.
What does it eat?
Primarily other small snakes and lizards.
Choco Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Choco Coral Snake.
