Mussurana
Clelia clelia
A large, snake-eating colubrid famed for its resistance to pit viper venom and its dramatic ontogenetic color change.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-2.4 m (4-8 ft)
- Range
- Central America and South America
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Overview
The mussurana is a robust, non-venomous snake found throughout much of Central and South America, celebrated for its habit of preying on venomous pit vipers such as fer-de-lances. It possesses a degree of physiological resistance to the venom of its prey.
Juveniles are strikingly colored in red and black with a white or cream collar, but adults transform into a uniform slate gray or black, making the species notable for its dramatic change in appearance with age.
How to identify it
- Juveniles: bright red body with a black head and white or cream neck collar
- Adults: uniform gray, bluish-gray, or black
- Stout, muscular body built for overpowering large prey
- Smooth scales
- Round pupils and rounded head
Habitat & range
Found in tropical forests, savannas, and agricultural edges from Mexico through Central America and much of South America. Occurs from lowlands to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, though also active by day in some regions. Specializes in eating other snakes, including venomous pit vipers, using constriction to subdue prey. Lays eggs. Considered ecologically beneficial for controlling venomous snake populations.
Frequently asked questions
Is the mussurana venomous?
No, it is non-venomous.
What is unusual about its coloration?
Juveniles are bright red and black with a white collar, while adults turn nearly uniform gray or black.
What does it eat?
Primarily other snakes, including venomous pit vipers, which it subdues by constriction.
Where does it live?
Tropical forests and savannas from Mexico through Central and South America.
Mussurana guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Mussurana.
