yellow-lipped sea krait

sea snake

Also known as: Laticauda colubrina

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July 23, 2026

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The yellow-lipped sea krait (Laticauda colubrina) is one of six species of sea kraits, which are a type of sea snake belonging to the cobra family. Unlike true sea snakes, sea kraits are not as specialized for aquatic life. They have flattened tails but cylindrical bodies and can move on land.12

Sea kraits typically have a black and white or yellow banded pattern. The yellow-lipped sea krait is distinguished by its yellow snout. These snakes are nocturnal and primarily feed on eels in shallow waters. They lay their eggs on land, often in limestone caves or rock crevices. Adults usually reach about 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length. While sea snakes, including kraits, possess potent venom, they are not aggressive, and human fatalities are rare.1

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sea snake
The yellow-lipped sea krait (L. colubrina) is a common species that possesses this pattern and has a yellow snout. Sea kraits are nocturnal, feeding primarily on eels at depths of less than 15 metres (49 feet). They go ashore to lay their eggs, climbing up into…
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The yellow-lipped sea krait (L. colubrina) is a common species that possesses this pattern and has a yellow snout. Sea kraits are nocturnal, feeding primarily on eels at depths of less than 15 metres (49 feet). They go ashore to lay their eggs, climbing up into…
Read More