Kraits

Kraits are highly venomous snakes distributed widely across Southeast Asia in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Borneo. Some species are considered to have venom that are more potent that cobras, drop for drop. Krait bites, while rarer than other dangerous species, often result in high fatality rates due to their powerful neurotoxic venom. Sometimes, this is compounded by the fact that krait are misidentified as wolf snakes, leaving the victim in a false sense of security before the systematic effects of the venom become apparent. By then, the victim may have only a small window of time to seek medical attention.

Kraits are strictly terrestial and nocturnal, often being described as having docile natures during the day and a Hyde complexity at night. When threatened, kraits will tuck their heads under the body in a coil and flash their tail in the air. Kraits in Malaysia are primarily snake-eaters, though skinks are ocassionally taken. In Peninsular Malaysia, three species that occupy lowland to mid-level rainforest, including islands and coastal areas, are described.

The blue krait and banded kraitmay be mistaken as wolf snakes (Lycodon species) due to their similiar patterns and colouration at the juvenile stage. The red-headed krait is an uncommon species but is easily recognised due to its striking crimson colouration and contrast in body patterning. It is essential to recognise that kraits have a triangular frame, distinct spacing of bands, certain shape of snout and other markings in order to avoid misidentification in the field, of which lives have been claimed due to such errors.