Banded Krait

The banded krait is one of the largest species in the genus Bungarus, distributed across a broad swath of South and Southeast Asia. It is a highly venomous elapid, though it is generally regarded as more docile than the common krait and rarely bites unless provoked.

Its vivid alternating black-and-yellow banding makes it one of the most easily recognized kraits, and it is often encountered near water in lowland habitats.

• Large body with a distinctive triangular cross-section and a raised vertebral ridge
• Bold, wide alternating black and yellow bands along the entire body
• Yellow head with a black band through the eyes
• Round pupils
• Short tail relative to body length

Its triangular body shape and broad, high-contrast banding distinguish it from other krait species with narrower or fainter bands.

Found in lowland forest, grassland, agricultural areas, and near rivers, streams, and rice paddies across its wide range spanning India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indochina, southern China, and parts of Indonesia. Often found near water.

Primarily nocturnal, hiding during the day in burrows, under vegetation, or near water bodies. It is generally described as calmer and less prone to biting than some other kraits, tending to remain still or flee when encountered. Diet includes other snakes, fish, and small vertebrates. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of around 4-14 eggs.