Brown's Coral Snake
Micrurus browni
A tricolor coral snake of Pacific-slope forests in southern Mexico and northern Central America.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Pacific lowlands of Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador
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Overview
Brown's coral snake occurs along the Pacific lowlands from southern Mexico through Guatemala into El Salvador. It follows the tricolor ring pattern typical of the genus, distinguished from close relatives largely by ring proportions and regional distribution.
It is a secretive, ground-dwelling species that is infrequently seen due to its fossorial habits.
How to identify it
- Triads of black rings separated by red, bordered by narrow white or yellow rings
- Black head with a pale band behind the eyes
- Smooth scales and slender cylindrical body
- Small head not distinct from the neck; round pupils
- Regional range and ring proportions distinguish it from similar sympatric coral snakes
Habitat & range
Inhabits Pacific lowland tropical dry and moist forest of southern Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador, generally below 1,000 m elevation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and fossorial, hiding in leaf litter and soil during the day. Preys on other snakes and lizards. Reproduces by laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is Brown's coral snake venomous?
Yes, it carries neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes.
Where does it live?
Along the Pacific lowlands of southern Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
How can it be told apart from related species?
Mainly by subtle differences in ring proportions and its specific regional range.
What does it eat?
Primarily other snakes and lizards.
Brown's Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Brown's Coral Snake.
