Common Krait (Snakes Of Peninsular India)

Common Krait

Bungarus caeruleus

INTRODUCTION

Highly Venomous Elapid
Other names : Indian Krait
Part of Big 4 : High frequency of snakebites in India. Most Potent Venom of the Big 4
Neurotoxic Venom : Paralyzes muscles leading to respiratory and cardiac failure. Bite marks are tiny like two bug bites.

IDENTIFICATION

Dorsal body is Glossy Jet Black or Blueish-Black with Milky White Bands across the body.
Larger Hexagonal scales along Vertebra confirm it is a Krait.
Usually no bands close to neck and have rather thin bands and which maybe paired.
Often confused with wolf snakes which have thicker bands and collared neck.
Juveniles often have thicker bands like wolf snakes. Large scales along backbone is useful to distinguish.
Slightly broader head than neck, rounded snout, small black eyes, smooth scales, white belly.
Cylindrical body and grow to 3-4 feet on average.

DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT

Common throughout peninsular India.
Inhabits variety of forests, rocky terrain, grasslands and human habitations.
Hides in dark and undisturbed places like rat holes, tree mounds and brick piles.
Prefers proximity to water and stays hidden throughout day time.

DIET AND BEHAVIOR

Preys mainly on Other Snakes and Rodents. Also feeds on toads and lizards.
Fully Nocturnal. Sluggish during day but active hunter during night.
Very shy and non-offensive snake, usually reluctant to bite if not harassed.
When agitated during the day, it coils up into a ball concealing it's head and flattens body.
During the night when it is very active, it might hiss loudly and try to bite on harassment.
When it bites, it often holds on injecting considerable amounts of venom.

Sind Krait (Bungarus Sindanus)

Toxicity	Venomous
Found	Common