Cloud Forest Coral Snake
Micrurus nebularis
A montane coral snake found in the cloud forests of Oaxaca, marked by bold tricolor rings adapted to cool, wet, high-elevation habitats.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-0.9 m (2-3 ft)
- Range
- Cloud forests of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, southern Mexico
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Overview
The Cloud Forest coral snake inhabits the humid montane cloud forests of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca in southern Mexico, occurring at higher elevations than many of its lowland relatives. Its restriction to cloud forest habitat gives it its common name.
As with all Micrurus species, it possesses potent neurotoxic venom used to subdue prey, but it is shy and rarely aggressive toward humans.
How to identify it
- Tricolor pattern of red, black, and white/yellow rings in triads
- Glossy, smooth-scaled body
- Small head barely distinct from the body, black-capped
- Round pupils
- Moderate length compared to lowland coral snakes
- Distinguished from lowland species by higher-elevation range and slightly narrower red bands
Habitat & range
Found in humid montane cloud forests of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca in southern Mexico, typically at mid to high elevations. Shelters in moss, leaf litter, and rotting logs in cool, wet forest understory.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, emerging mainly at dusk or after rain. Preys on other snakes, caecilians, and amphibians. Reproduces by laying eggs, though detailed reproductive data is limited due to its remote habitat.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Cloud Forest coral snake found?
In the montane cloud forests of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca in southern Mexico.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it possesses neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes, though it is reclusive and rarely encountered.
What does it eat?
It primarily preys on other snakes, caecilians, and amphibians found in the forest floor litter.
Cloud Forest Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cloud Forest Coral Snake.
