Many-banded Coral Snake
Micrurus multifasciatus
A tricolor coral snake named for its numerous narrow rings encircling the body.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Pacific lowlands of Panama and Colombia
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Overview
The many-banded coral snake is native to the Pacific lowlands of Panama and adjacent Colombia. It is characterized by an especially high number of narrow rings compared to related species, giving it a finely banded appearance.
It lives a secretive, fossorial lifestyle typical of coral snakes, spending most of its time hidden beneath forest debris and emerging mainly under cover of darkness or rain.
How to identify it
- Numerous narrow black, red, and white/yellow rings encircling the body, more closely spaced than in many congeners
- Black snout with a pale band behind it
- Smooth scales, cylindrical body, small head not distinct from neck
- Round pupils typical of coral snakes
- Ring count and narrowness help separate it from other regional Micrurus species
Habitat & range
Found in humid tropical lowland forest along the Pacific slope of Panama and Colombia, typically below 500 m elevation, hiding in leaf litter and loose soil.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and fossorial, rarely seen above ground during the day. Preys on other snakes and lizards. Reproduces via egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'many-banded' refer to?
Its unusually high number of narrow body rings compared to related coral snakes.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it carries potent neurotoxic venom like other coral snakes.
Where is it found?
In Pacific lowland forests of Panama and Colombia.
Is it commonly seen?
No, it is secretive and fossorial, rarely encountered.
Many-banded Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Many-banded Coral Snake.
