THE banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus) is a remarkable snake measuring up to 2 meters in length. It appears visually striking, with alternating black and yellow or white bands encircling its body. These bands provide excellent camouflage in its natural habitat, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Its head is small and slightly flattened, and it possesses a distinctive black band across its eyes. Its rounded and broad tail is often used to distract predators, which may mistake it for a head while its real head remains hidden under its body.

The banded krait can be found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands and agricultural areas. It is primarily found in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and China. This adaptable snake can thrive in terrestrial and aquatic environments, seeking refuge in burrows, rock crevices or under logs during the day.

Predominantly nocturnal, it prefers to hunt and explore under cover of darkness. It is also known for its secretive nature, often avoiding human encounters. When threatened, the banded krait may adopt a defensive posture, coiling its body and hiding its head or performing aggressive body movements to escape.

This venomous snake relies on its neurotoxic venom — the result of natural selection and adaptation — to subdue its prey. Its diet primarily consists of other snakes, including small cobras and kraits. It also feeds on lizards, frogs and occasionally small mammals. The banded krait immobilizes its prey with potent venom, and then swallows its meal whole.

The banded krait plays a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance. As an apex predator, it helps control populations of smaller reptiles and mammals, contributing to the stability of the food chain.