Many-Banded Krait
Bungarus multicinctus
A slender, black-and-white banded krait of East and Southeast Asia, well known in the herpetological literature.
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.8 m (3.3-6 ft)
- Range
- East and Southeast Asia (southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, northern Thailand)
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Overview
The many-banded krait is an elapid found across parts of East and Southeast Asia. It is nocturnal, which minimizes direct encounters with people.
How to identify it
- Slender body with a low vertebral ridge along the spine
- Alternating glossy black and white (or pale) bands running the length of the body
- Bands typically narrower and more numerous than in the banded krait
- Small black head
- Round pupils
Its narrower, more numerous black-and-white banding, compared to the broader bands of the banded krait, is a useful distinguishing feature.
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland agricultural land, grassland, forest edge, and areas near human settlements across southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and northern Thailand. Often found near water sources.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Strictly nocturnal, it hides in burrows or under debris during the day. At night it becomes an active forager, preying heavily on other snakes as well as small mammals. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches typically of 3-15 eggs.
Frequently asked questions
How big does the many-banded krait get?
Adults typically reach 1.0-1.8 m (3.3-6 ft).
Where is the many-banded krait found?
It occurs in southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and northern Thailand.
Many-Banded Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Many-Banded Krait.
