Blossom Krait
Lycodon striatus
A small, harmless, krait-like colubrid whose banded pattern often causes it to be mistaken for a venomous krait.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.25-0.4 m (10-16 in)
- Range
- South Asia and parts of the Middle East
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Overview
Despite its common name, the Blossom Krait is not a true krait but a small, non-venomous wolf snake whose banding pattern superficially resembles that of dangerous kraits. This resemblance likely serves as a form of mimicry to deter predators.
It is a diminutive, secretive species found across drier regions of South Asia and into parts of the Middle East.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with narrow white or cream crossbands on a dark brown to black background
- Smooth scales lacking the enlarged vertebral row seen in true kraits
- Small head barely wider than the neck
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from true kraits by its much smaller size and lack of a ridged vertebral scale row
Habitat & range
Found in dry scrub, rocky terrain, and agricultural edges across the Indian subcontinent, extending into parts of the Middle East such as Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, sheltering under rocks and debris during the day. Feeds on small lizards, particularly geckos. Egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Blossom Krait actually a krait?
No, despite the name it is a harmless wolf snake, not a true venomous krait.
Why does it resemble a krait?
Its banded pattern likely mimics venomous kraits as a defense against predators, a strategy known as Batesian mimicry.
Where is it found?
In dry scrub and rocky habitats across the Indian subcontinent and parts of the Middle East.
What does it eat?
Mainly small lizards, especially geckos.
Blossom Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Blossom Krait.
