Andaman Krait
Bungarus andamanensis
An island-endemic krait found only in the Andaman archipelago, banded in black and white, and considered dangerously venomous like its mainland relatives.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.0 m (2.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Andaman Islands, India
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Overview
The Andaman Krait is endemic to the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, distinguished as a separate species from the larger, more widespread kraits found on the Indian mainland. Its restricted island distribution makes it a species of particular biogeographic interest.
As with other kraits, it carries a potent neurotoxic venom and should be treated with caution, despite its relatively limited and localized range.
How to identify it
- Black body crossed by narrow white or pale crossbands, similar in general pattern to the Common Krait
- Smooth, glossy scales with an enlarged vertebral scale row
- Cylindrical body with a short tail and a head only slightly distinct from the neck
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from mainland kraits mainly by its restricted island range and subtle scalation differences
Habitat & range
Endemic to the Andaman Islands, where it inhabits forest floors, plantations, and areas near human habitation, often at low elevations near the coast.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, emerging after dark to hunt small vertebrates including other snakes. Spends daylight hours hidden under leaf litter, rocks, or burrows. Lays eggs. Occasionally enters rural dwellings, increasing the chance of nighttime encounters with people.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Andaman Krait dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous with neurotoxic venom similar to other krait species.
Where is it found?
Only on the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, India.
How is it different from the Common Krait?
It is a distinct island-endemic species restricted to the Andamans, differing subtly in scalation from mainland kraits.
When is it active?
It is nocturnal, hunting at night and hiding during the day.
Andaman Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Andaman Krait.
