Coral snakes are a group of venomous snakes recognized by their distinct, vibrant coloration. Found across various regions, including the southern United States, they possess potent neurotoxic venom. Accurate identification is important, as their bite can lead to serious medical concerns.
General Appearance and Habitat
Coral snakes typically exhibit a slender body and a relatively small head that is not much wider than their neck. Their scales are smooth and often have a polished appearance. Most species display a vibrant pattern of red, yellow (or white), and black bands that completely encircle their body. They generally average around 2 to 3 feet in length, though some individuals can reach up to 5 feet.
These snakes are primarily found in the southeastern and southwestern United States. In the southeastern U.S., their range extends from North Carolina to Florida and westward into Louisiana, Arkansas, and eastern Texas. They prefer habitats with well-drained, sandy soil, such as pine forests, sandhills, and pine flatwoods. Coral snakes are often secretive, spending much of their time underground in burrows, under leaf litter, logs, or rocks.
Key Identification Features
The specific arrangement of colored bands is a distinguishing characteristic. The rhyme, “red touches yellow, kills a fellow; red touches black, venom lack,” is a useful mnemonic. For coral snakes, red bands are bordered by yellow bands, meaning red and yellow bands touch. The red and black bands are generally similar in width, while the yellow bands are narrower.
Another identifying feature is their head shape and coloration. Coral snakes have a small, rounded head that is typically black, often followed by a wide yellow band. Their pupils are round, unlike the elliptical pupils seen in many other venomous snakes like vipers. Coral snakes possess small, fixed fangs at the front of their mouths. When they bite, they tend to hold on and make chewing motions to deliver their neurotoxic venom.
Distinguishing From Look-Alikes
Several non-venomous snakes mimic the vibrant coloration of coral snakes, making identification important. The scarlet kingsnake and scarlet snake are common mimics found in similar habitats. A key difference is their band patterns: while coral snakes have red bands touching yellow bands, mimics like the scarlet kingsnake have red bands touching black bands.
Another distinguishing feature is the color of their snout. Coral snakes have a black snout, whereas scarlet kingsnakes and scarlet snakes typically have a red snout. The banding pattern on the tail can also be indicative; coral snakes have tails with only black and yellow bands, without any red bands. Observing these specific details, particularly the order of the color bands and the snout color, helps differentiate a venomous coral snake from its harmless look-alikes.
Safety Precautions and What to Do
Encountering a coral snake requires caution. Leave the snake alone and observe it from a safe distance. Never attempt to handle, capture, or harm a coral snake, as bites often occur when provoked. Coral snakes are generally reclusive and will attempt to flee if confronted.
In the event of a coral snake bite, immediate medical attention is necessary. Call 911 or your regional poison control center (1-800-222-1222) right away. While waiting for emergency services, remain calm and keep the bitten limb still, ideally at or below heart level, to slow the spread of venom. Remove any constricting items like rings or watches, as swelling may occur, and avoid applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out the venom, as these actions are not helpful and can cause further harm. Medical observation for at least 24 hours is important, even if initial symptoms are mild, as coral snake venom can cause delayed symptoms.