Coral snakes are present in Texas, making them one of the state’s venomous snake species. These reptiles are known for their vibrant coloration, which serves as a warning. Despite their potent venom, coral snakes are reclusive and not aggressive, typically avoiding human contact. Encounters are rare, but understanding their presence is important.
Where Coral Snakes Are Found
The Texas Coral Snake (Micrurus tener) is the primary species found across Texas. This species ranges throughout eastern, central, and southern Texas, from Sherman to Sanderson. They are not found in far West Texas or the Panhandle.
These snakes favor diverse habitats, including mixed pine and hardwood forests, subtropical thorn scrub, and tall-grass prairies. They are also found in riparian woodlands along rocky creek banks and canyons. Texas coral snakes often inhabit areas with organic ground litter like leaf litter, logs, or stumps, where they can burrow and remain hidden. They are active in spring and fall during cooler mornings, shifting to crepuscular or nocturnal activity in hot weather. They can also be found in gardens and undeveloped parklands within suburban areas.
Identifying Coral Snakes
Texas coral snakes are identifiable by their distinct banding pattern: alternating broad black, narrow yellow, and broad red rings. The red rings are always bordered by yellow rings. This pattern completely encircles their body, including the belly. They have a slender body, a small, rounded head, and typically grow to about two feet, though some reach four feet.
It is important to differentiate the venomous coral snake from non-venomous look-alikes, such as the scarlet kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides) and milk snake (Lampropeltis triangulum). These harmless mimics have similar red, black, and yellow bands, but their red bands are bordered by black bands. A common mnemonic highlights this difference: “Red and yellow, kill a fellow; red and black, venom lack.” The coral snake’s head is black with a short snout, while king snakes often have red heads and longer snouts.
Encountering a Coral Snake
Encountering a coral snake requires caution. These snakes are not aggressive and usually attempt to flee when disturbed. Bites typically occur when people attempt to handle or harass the snake. If you encounter a coral snake, maintain a safe distance and do not attempt to capture, touch, or kill it.
Coral snake venom is primarily neurotoxic, meaning it affects the nervous system. Unlike pit viper bites, coral snake bites often cause minimal pain or swelling at the bite site. Symptoms of envenomation can be delayed for several hours, but can progress rapidly once they appear. These delayed symptoms may include weakness, slurred speech, blurred vision, and difficulty breathing, which can be life-threatening if untreated.
If a bite occurs, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or your local emergency number. Remain calm, as an elevated heart rate can hasten the spread of venom. Remove any jewelry or constricting clothing from the bitten area to accommodate potential swelling. Gently wash the bite with soap and water, if available, and keep the bitten limb at heart level.
Avoid these ineffective actions, which can cause further harm:
- Applying a tourniquet
- Cutting the wound
- Attempting to suck out the venom
- Applying ice
Inform medical personnel about the snake’s appearance if possible to aid in identification and treatment.