Ceylon Krait
Bungarus ceylonicus
A slender, endemic krait restricted to Sri Lanka, marked with narrow pale crossbands on a dark body and considered medically important on the island.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Sri Lanka (endemic)
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Overview
The Ceylon krait is a highly venomous elapid endemic to Sri Lanka, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It is closely related to mainland krait species but occupies a distinct island range.
As with other kraits, it is regarded as medically significant in areas where it occurs, though it is smaller and less frequently documented than some of its mainland Asian relatives.
How to identify it
- Slender body with a low vertebral ridge
- Dark bluish-black to brown dorsal ground color
- Narrow, widely spaced pale (whitish or yellowish) crossbands
- Small, dark head
- Round pupils
Its endemic range to Sri Lanka, combined with fine pale crossbanding on a dark body, helps distinguish it from other krait species.
Habitat & range
Found in forested and agricultural lowlands, as well as hill country, across Sri Lanka. It favors moist habitats and areas near human settlement, similar to other kraits.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and generally secretive, hiding during the day in burrows or under cover. It becomes active at night to forage, feeding largely on other snakes and small vertebrates. Reproduction is oviparous, though detailed clutch information is limited.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ceylon krait venomous?
Yes, it is highly venomous and considered medically significant in Sri Lanka.
How big does the Ceylon krait get?
Adults typically reach 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft).
Where is the Ceylon krait found?
It is endemic to Sri Lanka and found nowhere else.
Is the Ceylon krait related to the common krait?
Yes, it belongs to the same genus, *Bungarus*, as the common krait.
Ceylon Krait guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Ceylon Krait.
