Banded Krait

Bungarus fasciatus

Reptile

Transcript:

Today on Animal Fact Files we’re discussing banded kraits. Banded kraits are terrestrial, or ground dwelling snakes that live throughout southern Asia in forested habitats, open areas with bodies of water, and even near human settlements. They live from sea level to more than a mile (1.6km) above sea level. These snakes are nocturnal and spend most of their daytime hours sleeping in burrows created by other animals such as rats or termites. At night, banded kraits come out to hunt. A banded krait’s favorite diet is other snakes which include non-venomous snakes such as rat snakes as well as venomous snakes such as other kraits. They’ll also eat other reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals if they can’t find a snakey morsel.

They use venom to subdue their prey. The venom causes paralysis which leads to asphyxiation, or the inability to breathe. Banded krait venom can be deadly to humans. If addressed quickly, a person can be treated, though long exposure can lead to permanent nerve damage. There have been recorded deaths by banded kraits, though interactions with these snakes are relatively rare due to the banded krait’s nocturnal nature and general laziness during the day. In fact, some people native to banded krait terrority encourage the company of these serpents. They benefit from the lack of other snakes, including possibly more deadly snakes, in their settlements due to the kraits’ dietary choices.

Banded kraits are yellow and black in alternating rings that circle their bodies. This warning coloration is also known as aposematic coloration. It’s a distinct signal to other animals, including potential predators, that these snakes should not be messed with. If bright colors aren’t enough, banded kraits have nubby, blunt tails that can easily be confused for a second head. Often, they’ll lay with their heads tucked under their coils and their tail sticking out; this way, if a predator is foolish enough to try and take a bite, the predator will chomp the tail end leaving the real head to strike in defense!

Banded kraits are triangular shaped, and they’re the longest of the krait species. They can reach more than six and a half feet (2m) in length, though just under five feet (1.5m) is a closer average. Something worth noting is that these venomous snakes have round pupils. Some people believe that pupil shape can be an indicator of a venomous snake. Supposedly cat-like pupils, like those seen in rattlesnakes, indicating danger. But this is wrong, as proven here with these venomous snakes sporting round pupils.

The mating season of banded kraits occurs in spring, though in warmer areas it may also happen year round. The female banded krait will lay around four to fourteen eggs about two months after mating. She protects the eggs which hatch in another two months. It’s likely she leaves them shortly before they hatch to avoid seeing them as a potential meal. They’re on their own after hatching, but they emerge with venom for defense. Banded kraits may live to be more than a decade old.

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