Nature Field Guide
Redback Coffee Snake
- Spanish name
- Dormilona común / Culebra de cafetal
- Scientific name
- Ninia sebae
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What clues help us recognize this reptile?”
Tati: “Let’s notice its shape, markings and habitat from a respectful distance.”
Species overview
About the Redback Coffee Snake
The redback coffee snake can have a red or brick-colored back, a dark head and a pale neck collar. Its small size and striking colors do not make it a species to pick up. Similar-looking young snakes can require careful expert identification.
This is a ground-dwelling reptile associated with sheltered leaf-litter habitat. Leave its cover in place. A notebook drawing made from a reference image can reveal the difference between a continuous red back and the repeating rings of other species.
Identification
Key Features of the Redback Coffee Snake
Red or brick-colored upper body
Dark head
Pale neck collar and small eyes
Habitat & range
Lowland and foothill ground cover in suitable wooded and disturbed habitats on both slopes.
Local observations
Native reptile recorded in Costa Rica. Presence varies with suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Visibility varies with weather, habitat and the animal’s activity. Observe on an appropriate guided outing; never disturb a hiding animal to obtain a sighting.
Conservation & care
Observe only from a distance with an adult or qualified guide. Do not touch, catch, corner or attempt to move any snake. Step back and tell your adult; keep children and pets away. Do not use colors, head shape or pupil shape to decide a snake is safe.
Threats & pressures
Protect habitat connections and natural shelters. Avoid road mortality, collection and deliberate killing. Leave reptiles in their habitat rather than keeping or relocating them.
Observation activity
Use a reference picture to mark the head, collar and back in three colors. Do not use color as a handling rule.
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