Guyana Blackback Coral Snake
Micrurus dissoleucus
A small coral snake of northern South America and southern Central America, patterned in tricolor rings with narrow pale bands.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Northern Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama
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Overview
The Guyana Blackback coral snake is a small, slender coral snake ranging across northern Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama. It is one of the more diminutive members of the genus Micrurus, sometimes referred to as a pygmy coral snake.
It inhabits dry to moist lowland forests and savanna-forest mosaics, living much of its life hidden underground or under surface litter, and is rarely encountered by people.
How to identify it
- Red, black, and pale (white/yellow) rings arranged along the body
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small head with black cap, indistinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Small size, generally under 0.7 m
- Distinguished from other northern coral snakes by its small size and banding proportions
Habitat & range
Occurs in dry to moist lowland forest, thorn scrub, and forest-savanna transition zones across northern Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama. Found from sea level to moderate elevations, sheltering in leaf litter and under logs.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, most active at night or after rain. Diet consists mainly of other snakes and elongate lizards. Reproduces by laying eggs during the humid season.
Frequently asked questions
How large does this coral snake get?
It is a small, slender species, generally staying under about 0.7 m in length.
Where does it live?
Across northern Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama.
Is it dangerous?
It is venomous but secretive and rarely bites people due to its fossorial habits.
Guyana Blackback Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Guyana Blackback Coral Snake.
