Coral snakes are venomous reptiles in the Elapidae family. Their venom contains potent neurotoxins, capable of causing severe neurological symptoms and respiratory failure if untreated. Accurate identification is important for safety, as understanding their distinct features helps distinguish them from non-venomous look-alikes.
Key Visual Characteristics
Coral snakes possess a slender body, typically 20 to 30 inches long, with some reaching up to 47 inches. Their scales are smooth and shiny. Their most recognizable feature is a distinctive banding pattern: alternating broad red and black rings, separated by narrower yellow or white rings. These vibrant bands completely encircle the snake’s body. The red bands often contain small black flecks or spots.
The head is small, blunt, and generally not distinct from its neck. A distinguishing characteristic is a black snout, followed by a broad yellow band just behind the eyes. The tail features only black and yellow bands, without any red.
Differentiating from Similar-Looking Snakes
Distinguishing coral snakes from non-venomous mimics, such as the Scarlet Kingsnake and Scarlet Snake, is important due to their similar coloration. Both display red, black, and yellow or white banding patterns, leading to frequent confusion. A commonly used mnemonic for North American species is “Red on yellow, kill a fellow; Red on black, venom lack,” which highlights the key difference in band order.
In venomous coral snakes, red bands always touch yellow bands. Conversely, in Scarlet Kingsnakes and Scarlet Snakes, red bands touch black bands. Another indicator is head coloration: coral snakes consistently have a black snout, while their mimics often have a red snout. While Scarlet Kingsnake bands fully encircle the body, Scarlet Snake bands may not, with their bellies often being a cream or white color.
Geographic Distribution and Local Variations
Three main species of coral snakes are found within the United States: the Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius), the Western or Arizona Coral Snake (Micruroides euryxanthus), and the Texas Coral Snake (Micrurus tener). The Eastern Coral Snake inhabits the southeastern United States, from North Carolina through Florida and westward into Louisiana. It typically prefers habitats with well-drained, sandy soils, such as pine forests and scrub oak areas.
The Western or Arizona Coral Snake is found in central and southern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and into Mexico, commonly residing in arid and semi-arid environments, including rocky desert landscapes. The Texas Coral Snake’s distribution includes Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
The “red on yellow” identification rule primarily applies to these North American species. However, some coral snake species globally, particularly Old World species, do not follow this pattern. Regional variations or exceptions to the mnemonic can also occur within the New World, making local knowledge valuable.