Forest Flame Snake
Oxyrhopus petolarius
A slender tricolor Neotropical snake whose banded red-and-black pattern mimics venomous coral snakes.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Mexico through Central America to South America
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Overview
The Forest Flame Snake is a nocturnal, ground-dwelling colubrid found across a wide swath of Central and South America. Its striking coloration has earned it the nickname "calico snake" and places it among the most convincing coral snake mimics in the New World.
Despite its intimidating appearance, it is a rear-fanged species with mild venom used mainly to subdue small prey and poses little threat to humans.
How to identify it
- Body pattern varies geographically but often shows black bands separated by red or orange, sometimes with white or yellow flecking
- Head typically black, lacking the coral snake's uniform banding onto the head
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Round pupils (unlike vipers)
- Slender build, moderate length
- Distinguished from true coral snakes by irregular banding and rear-fanged head shape rather than the strict ring pattern of Micrurus
Habitat & range
Found in lowland and premontane tropical forests, forest edges, and secondary growth from Mexico south through Central America into Amazonian South America. Primarily terrestrial and often found under leaf litter or logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, spending daylight hours hidden beneath debris. Feeds on lizards, small mammals, and other snakes. Egg-laying (oviparous) reproduction is typical for the genus. When threatened it may flatten its body and display its bright banding as a warning.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Forest Flame Snake dangerous?
It is only mildly venomous and rear-fanged, posing minimal risk to humans.
Why does it look like a coral snake?
It is a Batesian mimic, copying the warning colors of venomous coral snakes to deter predators.
Is it active during the day or night?
It is primarily nocturnal, hiding under litter and logs during daylight.
What does it eat?
It preys on lizards, small mammals, and occasionally other snakes.
Forest Flame Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Forest Flame Snake.
