Crossing paths with a blue-lipped sea krait

The fauna of New Caledonia is diverse, and for the most part endemic. Among the fifteen or so species of sea snake found in the lagoon, the sea krait is New Caledonia's most famous snake.

The sea krait is a snake that can be described as amphibious: it goes into the sea to hunt moray eels and conger eels, and then returns to land to digest, rest and lay eggs.

Three species of sea kraits cohabit New Caledonia, including this blue-lipped sea krait. It is found throughout the Pacific Ocean and in the northern Indian Ocean.

The sea krait is venomous. Its deadly venom is reputed to be ten times more potent than that of the King Cobra. Fortunately, striped tricot is not aggressive and bites are very rare.

Thank goodness! 😱