Wall's Krait
Bungarus walli
A banded krait of the Gangetic plains, named after herpetologist Frank Wall, closely resembling the Common Krait and carrying dangerously potent venom.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.3 m (3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Northern India, Nepal, and Bangladesh
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Overview
Wall's Krait is a species of krait found across the Gangetic plains of northern India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, historically confused with the widespread Common Krait due to their similar banded appearance. It was named in honor of Frank Wall, a pioneering herpetologist who studied the snakes of South Asia.
Like other kraits, it possesses a highly potent neurotoxic venom and is active mainly at night, making chance encounters with humans more likely to occur after dark.
How to identify it
- Black to dark bluish-black body with narrow white crossbands, similar to the Common Krait
- Smooth scales with a distinctly enlarged hexagonal vertebral scale row
- Triangular body cross-section typical of kraits
- Head barely distinguishable from the neck, with round pupils
- Best separated from the Common Krait by subtle scalation and range differences, often requiring expert examination
Habitat & range
Found in lowland plains, agricultural fields, and areas near water across the Gangetic basin of northern India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Strictly nocturnal, hunting other snakes and small vertebrates at night while sheltering during the day in burrows or under debris. Lays eggs. Occasionally enters rural homes, which can lead to accidental nighttime encounters with sleeping people.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wall's Krait dangerous?
Yes, it has potent neurotoxic venom similar to the Common Krait.
How is it different from the Common Krait?
It is a closely related but distinct species, separable mainly through subtle scale and range differences.
Where is it found?
The Gangetic plains of northern India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
When is it active?
It is strictly nocturnal, becoming active after dark.
Wall's Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Wall's Krait.
