Reptile · GBIF taxon 8876700
Clelia clelia
Clelia cleliaAlso known as Black Mussurana, Windward Cribo
Adult mussuranas display an iridescent gunmetal-black or dark blue body, contrasting sharply with the bright coral-pink coloration of juveniles. Famous for immunity to pit viper venom, these formidable constrictors actively hunt and consume highly venomous snakes such as lanceheads and bushmasters. They rely on swift strikes, powerful muscular coils, and rear-fanged teeth to overpower prey before swallowing it whole.
OphiophagousRear-FangedReptile
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Fer-de-lance Vipers
- Bushmasters
- Small Rodents
Predators
- Large Birds of Prey
- Harpy Eagles
- Humans
ThreatsHabitat loss, deforestation, and human persecution due to fear of snakes
HabitatsTropical rainforests, humid woodlands, savannah margins, and agricultural areas
Life span15–20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyColubridae
- SpeciesClelia clelia
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Docile toward humans, but capable of a painful defensive bite if cornered or restrained.
Responsible observation
- Observe from a Distance: Maintain a comfortable distance to observe natural foraging behavior without causing stress.
- Avoid Handling: Though normally slow to strike humans, wild individuals will bite defensively if restrained.
- Protect Local Populations: Avoid harming these snakes, as they provide valuable natural control of venomous pit vipers.
Venomous Prey Darío De la Fuente / CC BY 4.0 · cc-by
Ecological Counterpart Prey Close Relative
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