ABOUT
About Akamata Snake
Grows up to about 200 cm. Most easily observed from May through November. The body is yellowish brown with red-and-black oval crossbands. It has no venom but is aggressive, hissing and striking if you enter its territory. It feeds on mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, and even eats sea turtle eggs; it sometimes preys on its natural enemy, the Habu pit viper. Nocturnal, it can be seen along forest roads and around water, all the way to the coast. Smaller individuals show stronger red coloring and are very beautiful, but even a small one gives a painful bite, so take care. Also known in English as the Ryukyu Odd-tooth Snake.
SAFETY
Observation Safety Notes
Please enjoy Amami's wildlife through photographs. Some species are protected by law or local ordinance, and capturing or removing them is prohibited. In special protection zones within the national park, collecting any wildlife is prohibited entirely. Please check the notes on this page, and confirm local rules before visiting any site.
