Coral snakes, members of the Elapidae family, are distinct among North American venomous species. They are oviparous, meaning they reproduce by laying eggs. This strategy is notable because the Eastern coral snake is the only venomous snake in the United States that lays eggs, while all US pit vipers are viviparous.
The Reproductive Strategy of Coral Snakes
Being oviparous, the female coral snake deposits a clutch of fertilized eggs that develop and hatch outside of her body. The mating season for North American coral snakes typically begins in the spring, generally extending from March through May.
Males actively seek out reproductive females by tracking pheromone trails they release. Courtship involves the male coiling around the female, culminating in the transfer of sperm using paired reproductive organs called hemipenes. Female coral snakes, particularly the Eastern species, are typically larger than the males.
Once mating is complete, the female stores the sperm internally until her eggs are ready for fertilization. This process ensures that the eggs are laid at an optimal time. Females usually produce just one clutch of eggs per year.
Details of Coral Snake Egg Laying and Hatching
The female will seek out a secluded, protected location to lay her eggs, often choosing sites that offer moisture and stable temperatures. Common nesting spots include underground tunnels, the burrows of other animals, or beneath thick leaf litter and decaying logs. She typically deposits her clutch around June.
A clutch of coral snake eggs is relatively small, usually containing an average of seven eggs, though the range can be from two to twelve. The eggs are soft, white, and elongated, with a leathery shell that allows for moisture absorption. Incubation time is approximately 60 to 90 days, with hatching generally occurring between August and September.
Upon hatching, the neonates are small, measuring around 20 centimeters (about eight inches) in length, and are immediately independent. These hatchlings possess a fully functional venom delivery system from birth, meaning a young coral snake is just as dangerous as an adult.
Identifying True Coral Snakes and Their Geographical Range
Correct identification is important because true coral snakes possess a potent venom. North American coral snakes are easily recognized by their distinct pattern of alternating red, yellow, and black bands that completely encircle the body.
The Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) is found throughout the southeastern United States, favoring well-drained habitats such as pine flatwoods and sandy scrubland. The mnemonic “Red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, venom lack” is commonly used to distinguish the venomous coral snake from non-venomous mimics, such as the scarlet kingsnake.
In the coral snake, the red bands touch the yellow bands, whereas the harmless look-alikes have red bands touching black bands. The black-tipped snout on a coral snake is also a reliable identifying feature. The two primary species in the United States are the Eastern Coral Snake and the Arizona Coral Snake (Micruroides euryxanthus), found in the southwestern US. While the rhyme is helpful for US species, it is not universally reliable for the many coral snake species found in Central and South America.
Understanding Coral Snake Venom and Bite Risk
Coral snake venom is highly neurotoxic, meaning it primarily attacks the nervous system rather than causing tissue damage. This neurotoxin targets the junction between nerves and muscles, which can eventually lead to paralysis and respiratory failure.
Unlike pit vipers, which have long, hinged fangs, coral snakes have short, fixed fangs. They are often described as needing to “chew” to deliver a dose of venom, though they can inject venom effectively in a single, quick strike. Bites on humans are rare due to the snake’s reclusive nature and tendency to retreat from confrontation.
Most bites occur when a person attempts to handle or harass the snake. Any suspected envenomation requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can be delayed for several hours, but once they begin, they progress rapidly. The specific treatment for a confirmed bite is the administration of antivenom, which is the only way to counteract the effects of the neurotoxin.