Japanese Coral Snake
Sinomicrurus japonicus
A small, secretive coral snake endemic to the subtropical Ryukyu Islands of Japan, patterned with reddish-brown bands and equipped with mild neurotoxic venom.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (16-28 in)
- Range
- Ryukyu Islands, Japan
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Overview
The Japanese Coral Snake is endemic to the Ryukyu Islands of southern Japan, including Okinawa and neighboring islands. It represents one of the few coral snake species found in East Asia rather than the Americas or Southeast Asia.
It is a shy, nocturnal species that is rarely encountered, spending much of its time hidden in forest leaf litter and under rocks or logs.
How to identify it
- Reddish-brown to orange body crossed by dark, narrow bands, giving a subtler pattern than many tropical coral snakes
- Smooth, glossy scales on a slender, cylindrical body
- Small head barely distinct from the neck, with round pupils
- Short tail typical of the genus
- Muted coloration compared to more brightly banded coral snakes of Southeast Asia and the Americas
Habitat & range
Restricted to subtropical forests of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, including Okinawa, Amami, and nearby islands, typically found in leaf litter and forested hillsides.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, emerging at night to hunt small prey including other snakes and lizards. Spends daylight hours hidden under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. Lays eggs. Rarely encountered by humans due to its retiring habits.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Japanese Coral Snake dangerous?
It is venomous with a mild neurotoxic venom, though serious bites are uncommon given its secretive nature.
Where is it found?
Endemic to the Ryukyu Islands of southern Japan, including Okinawa.
What does it eat?
Small snakes and lizards, hunted mainly at night.
Is it brightly colored like other coral snakes?
No, it has a more subdued reddish-brown banded pattern compared to many tropical coral snakes.
Japanese Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Japanese Coral Snake.
