Common Wolf Snake
Lycodon capucinus
A slender, nocturnal Asian colubrid often confused with venomous kraits due to similar banding, but harmless to humans.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 40-75 cm (16-30 in)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Common Wolf Snake is a widespread nocturnal colubrid found throughout South and Southeast Asia, frequently encountered in and around human dwellings. Its common name derives from its enlarged front teeth, reminiscent of a wolf's fangs, used to grip smooth-scaled prey such as geckos.
It is frequently mistaken for venomous krait species due to superficial banded resemblance, leading to unnecessary alarm, but it is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
How to identify it
- Slender body with smooth scales
- Dark brown to black background with narrow white or yellowish crossbands, especially near the head
- Often confused with kraits, but bands are typically less regular and the head is more distinct
- Head slightly flattened, round pupils
- Adult length typically 40-75 cm (16-30 in)
Habitat & range
Highly adaptable, found in forests, grasslands, agricultural land, and urban areas throughout South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of Indonesia. Commonly found around houses, walls, and gardens where geckos are abundant.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and terrestrial to semi-arboreal, often seen climbing walls in search of geckos and other lizards, its primary prey. When threatened, it may vibrate its tail and strike defensively, though it is non-venomous. Reproduction is oviparous, with small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Common Wolf Snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and harmless to humans, though often confused with kraits.
How can it be told apart from a krait?
Its banding is generally less regular and its head more distinct from the neck than in true kraits.
What does it eat?
It preys mainly on geckos and other small lizards.
Where is it found?
It is widespread across South and Southeast Asia, often near human habitation.
Common Wolf Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Common Wolf Snake.
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