Red-headed Krait
Bungarus flaviceps
The Red-headed Krait (Bungarus flaviceps), is a large venomous elapid snake with dramatic coloration. The Red-headed Krait can grow to a length of up to 2.1 m. It lives in lowland rain forest, including those on islands, but it is considered uncommon. It feeds primarily on specific snakes, probably semiaquatic and fossorial snakes. In Southeast Asia, the Red-headed Krait occurs in Malaysia, Thailand, and Sumatra, with a subspecies in Borneo. The venom potency is little-studied, as bites from this species are extremely rare.
The species presents a very striking and distinctive coloration – namely a bright red head and tail with a black body that includes a low-lateral narrow bluish white stripe. Having large, smooth scales, the general appearance of the Red-headed Krait is glossy and attractive. Captives will generally refuse to strike until they have been subjected to prolonged teasing. The average length of a red-headed krait is 1.2 to 1.7 m, with a maximum of 2.1 m. They have short, hollow fangs on their maxillary bones, with inlets at the bases and outlets near their tips. The venom is ducted to the inlet and forced through the hole at the tip of the fang.
The Red-headed Krait is an EXTREMELY venomous snake, although bites are reported rarely.
Red-headed Krait / Distribution area