Coral snakes are venomous reptiles, recognized as one of North America’s most potent snakes. Understanding their characteristics and venom effects is important for safety, especially since their vibrant appearance often mimics harmless species. These snakes are generally reclusive, but knowing how to identify them and what to do in case of a bite can save lives.
Understanding Coral Snake Venom
Coral snake venom is neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system. This distinguishes it from hemotoxic venom produced by pit vipers like rattlesnakes, which primarily cause tissue damage and internal bleeding. Neurotoxins in coral snake venom interfere with nerve impulses, potentially leading to paralysis. Symptoms include progressive motor deficits like drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and descending muscle weakness. Paralysis of respiratory muscles is the most concerning effect, potentially leading to respiratory failure if untreated.
Symptoms of a coral snake bite may be delayed for several hours, sometimes up to 13 hours. This can be deceptive, as initial pain and swelling are often minimal or absent at the bite site. Coral snakes have small, fixed fangs and typically deliver venom through a chewing motion, holding onto their victim for a few seconds. Coral snake bites are relatively uncommon, often happening when the snake is intentionally handled or provoked.
Identifying Coral Snakes
Coral snakes have distinctive banding patterns of red, yellow (or white), and black rings that completely encircle their bodies. A mnemonic rhyme helps distinguish them from non-venomous mimics in North America: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; red touches black, venom lack.” If red bands are directly next to yellow bands, the snake is venomous; if red bands are next to black bands, it is non-venomous.
This rhyme is useful for differentiating coral snakes from similar non-venomous species like king snakes and milk snakes. King snakes and milk snakes typically have red bands touching black bands. Other identifying features include a small, blunt, black snout or head, often followed by a broad yellow band behind the eyes. Their eyes are small and round, with smooth, shiny scales. The tail typically has only black and yellow bands, without any red.
Responding to a Coral Snake Bite
If a coral snake bite occurs, remain calm and seek emergency medical attention immediately. Call 911 or poison control immediately; medical evaluation is necessary even if symptoms are not yet apparent. While waiting for help, keep the bitten limb still and positioned at or below heart level to slow venom spread. Remove any jewelry or constrictive clothing near the bite site before swelling.
Avoid certain actions after a coral snake bite. Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, attempt to suck out the venom, or apply ice, as these methods are not effective and can cause further harm.
Antivenom is the only specific treatment and should be administered by medical professionals. Patients are typically monitored for at least 24 hours in a hospital due to potential for delayed onset of severe neurotoxic effects.
If safely possible, observe the snake from a distance or take a picture for identification. Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake, as this can lead to additional bites.