Identification:
The banded krait exhibits ontogenetic color pattern changes. Juveniles have up to 20 white body bands. As they mature, these bands gradually disappear, with the posterior white bands fading first. Adults are dark brown or black with broad white bands. The anterior portion becomes progressively darker until the posterior body becomes uniformly black. This species resembles the venomous Bungarus candidus, but it has slightly raised scales. The dorsal ridge is not broad, and the scales within the white bands lack black borders.
Biology and Ecology:
This species typically inhabits dry areas and has been observed at elevations above 1,770 meters. It is a nocturnal and terrestrial predator, primarily feeding on geckos and skinks; occasionally, they also consume frogs, small birds, and other small mammals. Females lay 5-11 eggs, which hatch after 10-12 weeks of incubation; hatchlings are approximately 24 cm in length.
Distribution:
Vietnam: Cao Bằng (Ngân Sơn), Lai Châu (Mường Tè), Hà Tây (Ba Vì), Tòng, Thanh Hoá (Quan Hoá), Tây Ninh, Đồng Nai.
Global: Found throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.