Coral snakes are present in Texas, representing the only elapid species in the region. This snake, the Texas Coral Snake, belongs to one of the world’s most venomous snake families, distinguishing it from common pit vipers like rattlesnakes and copperheads. Despite its potent venom, encounters are infrequent because the snake is highly reclusive and shy, spending most of its life out of sight.
Confirmation and Distribution in Texas
The species found here is Micrurus tener, the Texas Coral Snake. Native to the southeastern United States and parts of Mexico, its range covers the eastern and central portions of Texas. Distribution extends from the Gulf Coast and pine forests westward, but it is absent from the arid panhandle and far western regions. This snake is classified as a fossorial species, preferring subterranean or concealed habitats such as burrows or beneath leaf litter. This preference explains why they are seldom observed by humans.
Identification The Key Distinction
Identifying the Texas Coral Snake is important because several harmless species, such as the Scarlet Kingsnake and various Milk Snakes, mimic its distinctive coloration. The coral snake possesses a striking pattern of broad red, black, and narrow yellow rings that encircle its entire body. The most reliable way to differentiate the venomous coral snake from its non-venomous look-alikes is by observing how the colors meet.
The popular mnemonic device for identification is: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; Red touches black, friend of Jack.” This rhyme holds true for the Texas Coral Snake, where red bands are always bordered by yellow bands. In harmless mimics, red bands touch black bands instead. The Texas Coral Snake also has a small, rounded head that lacks a distinct neck and is typically marked with a solid black cap. Unlike pit vipers, they possess smooth scales rather than the triangular head and keeled scales characteristic of rattlesnakes.
Behavior and Venom Delivery
The Texas Coral Snake is generally non-aggressive. Bites usually occur when a person attempts to handle the animal or inadvertently steps on it. Their venom delivery system differs from pit vipers; they possess small, fixed fangs located in the front of the upper jaw. Because of the fangs’ structure, the snake often needs to hold on or “chew” to effectively inject venom, though a quick strike can still deliver a significant dose.
Effects of the Neurotoxin
The venom is a potent neurotoxin, meaning it primarily targets the central nervous system rather than causing severe local tissue damage. Unlike a pit viper bite, a coral snake bite typically causes minimal pain or swelling immediately following the event. This lack of immediate local symptoms can be deceptive, as the neurotoxic effects can be delayed, sometimes taking up to 12 hours to manifest. Once symptoms begin, they progress rapidly, potentially leading to slurred speech, drooping eyelids, muscle weakness, and respiratory paralysis.
Emergency Response
Any suspected bite from a Texas Coral Snake must be treated as a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital attention. Medical personnel will monitor the patient for hours, even without immediate symptoms, and administer antivenom if neurotoxicity develops. First aid should focus on keeping the victim calm and immobilizing the bitten extremity. Avoid harmful interventions, such as cutting the wound, applying suction, or using a tourniquet, as these actions are ineffective and can cause further injury.