Sinomicrurus swinhoei (Van Denburgh, 1912)

Nomenclature and Basic Classification

Sinomicrurus swinhoei, also known by its synonym Sinomicrurus sauteri, is a relatively small species of coral snake.

Snout-Vent Length

Males have a snout–vent length (SVL) ranging from 19 to 48 cm (7.5 to 18.9 in), while females range from 19 to 51 cm (7.5 to 20.1 in). The tail accounts for 10 to 16 percent of the total SVL.

Maximum Total Length

Some sources report a much higher maximum total length that includes the tail, at 98 cm (39 in).

Dorsal Scale Rows

This species has 13 dorsal scale rows.

Ventral Scale Counts

Females have 223 to 239 ventral scales, compared to 207 to 221 for males.

Subcaudal Scale Counts

Females have 32 to 36 subcaudal scales, while males have 36 to 41 subcaudal scales.

Temporal Scales

There are 1+1 temporal scales.

Dorsal Head Markings

The dorsal side of the head has a broad cream to white band that crosses the head behind the eyes. The base head color is brown-black to black.

Ventral Head and Snout Coloration

The underside of the head is white to very light gray, and the snout is whitish.

Dorsal Body and Tail Coloration

The dorsal side of the body and tail ranges from red to rusty brown, with scales flecked with diffuse dark brown or black markings. There is a series of narrow, black cross bands with light edges that may be incomplete along the flanks.

Ventral Body Coloration

The ventral side is cream to light gray with irregular black markings.

Distribution and Elevation Range

This species is widespread across Taiwan, occurring at elevations below 1,000 m (3,300 ft) or 1,200 m (3,900 ft) above sea level.

Habitat

It inhabits the montane forest floor, living in stone cracks and among leaf litter.

Activity Pattern

It is cathemeral, active at both day and irregular intervals at night.

Conservation Status

It is a rare species that holds protected status in Taiwan.

Reproduction

Sinomicrurus swinhoei is oviparous, and females lay 4 to 14 eggs during the summer.