Yellow-tailed Cribo
Drymarchon corais
A large, powerful South American colubrid related to indigo snakes, known for its glossy scales and impressive length.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.8-2.7 m (6-9 ft)
- Range
- South America, including the Amazon Basin
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Overview
The yellow-tailed cribo is a large, fast, non-venomous colubrid found across much of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin. It belongs to the same genus as the North American indigo snakes and shares their robust build and active foraging habits.
Its common name references the yellowish coloration often present toward the tail, contrasting with a darker forebody in many individuals.
How to identify it
- Large, muscular body with glossy scales
- Coloration varies regionally, often darker anteriorly with yellow or tan tones toward the tail
- Smooth scales giving a shiny appearance
- Broad head with round pupils
- One of the longest colubrids in South America
Habitat & range
Inhabits tropical rainforests, gallery forests, and savanna edges throughout much of South America including the Amazon Basin. Found from lowlands to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and highly active, an efficient predator that forages widely on the ground. Feeds on rodents, other snakes, amphibians, and birds. Lays eggs. Bold but not aggressive, may flee quickly when disturbed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the yellow-tailed cribo venomous?
No, it is non-venomous.
What does 'cribo' mean?
It is a common regional name in South America for large indigo-type snakes of the genus Drymarchon.
How big does it get?
Up to 2.7 m (9 ft), among the largest colubrids in South America.
What does it eat?
A broad diet including rodents, other snakes, amphibians, and birds.
Yellow-tailed Cribo guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Yellow-tailed Cribo.
Yellow-tailed Cribo identified by the community
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