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What is a Banded Krait?

C. K. Lanz
C. K. Lanz

The banded krait, or bungarus fasciatus, is a species of venomous snake native to southeast Asia, Bangladesh, and India. This species is strikingly colorful with black and yellow or black and white body bands, a black head, and a yellow or white belly. The banded krait’s habitat is as varied as that of rodents, its preferred prey. Individuals are generally nocturnal and non-aggressive, though the venom is thought to be as deadly as that of the common cobra.

It is easy to identify the banded krait. Its colorful body is made up of alternating black and yellow or white bands. The head is black and broad with a yellow marking similar to an arrowhead. Its lips, throat, and underside are also either yellow or white. This snake can grow up to 83.7 inches (2.13 meters) long.

Although the toxin from a banded krait will not cause much pain or swelling, it may negatively affect the victim's coordination.
Although the toxin from a banded krait will not cause much pain or swelling, it may negatively affect the victim's coordination.

The habitat range is varied for banded kraits. They are found in forests, coastal areas, and near termite mounds. Fields and mangrove groves are other common habitats. This snake is often spotted near villages and human settlements where rodents and water are readily available.

This snake species is most active at night when it hunts. During the day, a banded krait will typically coil up in tall grass, drains, or pits. It is sluggish and slow to react while it is light outside.

Rodents and certain snakes including the rat snake, cat snake, and keelback are the banded krait’s common prey. The venom paralyzes the prey, which is then swallowed head first. The banded krait may also eat lizards, fish, and snake eggs.

There is no specific antivenin for the banded krait’s neurotoxic venom. Few records exist of human beings being bitten by this snake because it is primarily a nocturnal species. The toxin will not cause much pain or swelling, but can affect the muscles and coordination and even lead to respiratory paralysis.

When a banded krait feels threatened, its common reaction is to try to hide its head in the coils of its own body. The species’ shy temperament and small head explains in part this reluctance to bite. Since this snake is nocturnal, the likelihood of a human being fatally bitten during the day is small.

During the Vietnam War, American soldiers referred to the banded krait as the two-step snake. Many believed that once a person was bitten, death was assured after taking only two more steps. This exaggeration of the venom’s potency did little to endear this species to humans, even though it helpfully kills rodents and other snakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Banded Krait and where can it be found?

The Banded Krait is a highly venomous snake species belonging to the family Elapidae, known for its distinct yellow and black crossbands. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, thriving in a variety of habitats from mangroves to forests. They are nocturnal and often found near water bodies.

How venomous is the Banded Krait?

The Banded Krait possesses potent neurotoxic venom that can cause respiratory failure and paralysis in humans. However, bites are rare due to its nocturnal and generally non-aggressive nature. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as the mortality rate can be high without treatment, according to medical case studies on snakebite envenomation.

What does the Banded Krait eat?

Banded Kraits primarily feed on other snakes, including venomous ones, showcasing their immunity to certain snake venoms. They also consume small mammals, lizards, and frogs. Their hunting strategy involves using their keen sense of smell to locate prey during the night, which they then immobilize with their venom.

How does the Banded Krait reproduce?

Banded Kraits are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Mating occurs after the winter season, and females lay clutches of 8 to 14 eggs in the summer. The eggs incubate for about two months before hatching. Juveniles are independent from birth and possess venom as potent as that of adults, according to herpetological studies.

Is the Banded Krait endangered?

As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, the Banded Krait is not classified as endangered. However, like many wildlife species, it faces threats from habitat destruction and degradation, as well as persecution due to fear of its venom. Conservation efforts are important to ensure its survival, as indicated by wildlife conservation organizations.

Can Banded Kraits be kept as pets?

Keeping Banded Kraits as pets is highly discouraged due to their venomous nature and specialized care requirements. They are dangerous and can pose a significant risk to humans. In many places, it is illegal to keep them without specific licenses, and experts recommend against it for the safety of both the snake and the owner.

Discussion Comments

Scrbblchick

The Russell's Viper was also called a "two-step" by soldiers in Vietnam. This viper was -- and is -- responsible for most of the fatal snakebites in its region.

Kraits are nothing to mess around with, though, and some are more diurnal and aggressive than others. However they are also elapids, which means their fangs are much smaller than a viper's and would have a hard time getting through tough jungle boots -- another reason to dress properly if going on a jungle trip. The best advice is the same for any snake anywhere -- leave it strictly alone. Don't try to pick them up or harass them in any way. Every jungle tourist should receive this instruction as a basic tenet of survival.

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    • Although the toxin from a banded krait will not cause much pain or swelling, it may negatively affect the victim's coordination.
      By: Remus Moise
      Although the toxin from a banded krait will not cause much pain or swelling, it may negatively affect the victim's coordination.