Putumayo Coral Snake
Micrurus putumayensis
A regional Amazonian coral snake named for the Putumayo River area, displaying vivid red, black, and pale tricolor rings.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-0.9 m (2-3 ft)
- Range
- Putumayo region of southern Colombia and northern Peru/Ecuador
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Overview
The Putumayo coral snake is named for the Putumayo River region spanning the borders of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, where it inhabits lowland Amazonian rainforest.
It is one of numerous morphologically similar Micrurus species distinguished mainly by subtle scale counts and geographic range, reflecting the high diversity of coral snakes in the western Amazon.
How to identify it
- Tricolor rings of red, black, and white/yellow in repeating triads
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small black-capped head, not distinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Moderate body size typical of Amazonian coral snakes
- Best distinguished from similar regional species by scale row and ring counts confirmed via close examination
Habitat & range
Found in lowland tropical rainforest of the Putumayo River drainage in southern Colombia, northern Peru, and eastern Ecuador. Occurs from lowland to lower foothill elevations, hiding in leaf litter and rotting wood.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, most active at night or during humid conditions. Feeds primarily on other snakes and elongate reptiles. Reproduces by laying eggs, with limited detailed data due to its remote range.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Putumayo coral snake found?
In the Putumayo River region spanning southern Colombia, northern Peru, and eastern Ecuador.
Is it dangerous to humans?
It is venomous but very secretive, so encounters and bites are uncommon.
How is it identified?
By its red-black-yellow tricolor rings, though close relatives require scale counts to distinguish reliably.
Putumayo Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Putumayo Coral Snake.
