The Okinawa Coral snake (Simomicrurus japonicus boettgeri) is a venomous snake found throughout the Ryukyu Islands. They are difficult to find here on Okinawa and are usually found at night. More effort should be focused on conserving this exotic native snake. This beautiful snake has been overlooked and needs to be protected. It is currently listed near threatened on the IUCN red list of endangered species.
- Scientific name: Simomicrurus japonicus boettgeri
- Local name: Okinawa Coral snake
- Distribution: Ryukyu Islands
- Habitat: Forests
- Diet: Small snakes and lizards
- Average size: 30cm -60cm
- Color: Black, orange with a yellow and black belly.
They blend in very well with leaves and broken sticks making them hard to find.
When threatened the coral snake will coil its tail. This defense mechanism confuses the predator.
These rare snakes are often found crossing the road at night and sadly I have seen more dead than alive.
The underside of the snake is quite beautiful as well.
The Hyan coral snake ( Sinomicrurus japonicus japonicus) is a subspecies we found on Amami Island. The stripes are less interrupted than the Okinawan coral snake.
People often ask me what is the purpose of conservation photography? Having the ability to affect some form of positive change in the environment and make a global difference with the photographs. Hopefully, the images will inspire people to care more about nature and make a positive difference in the environment.
My Mission: To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands
This site is also designed to help people identify the beautiful animals of Okinawa, basically to serve as an online nature reference guide. If you would like to make a contribution to support my mission, please click on the donation link
Your donations will help conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support, Shawn M Miller.
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