Coral snakes are striking reptiles with vibrant banding patterns, yet their appearance often leads to confusion with harmless snake species. Distinguishing between a venomous coral snake and its non-venomous mimics is important for safety. Many non-venomous snakes have evolved similar colorations as a defense mechanism, deterring potential predators.
Key Characteristics of Coral Snakes
Coral snakes in the United States are recognized by their distinct banding patterns of red, yellow, and black. Their red bands are always bordered by yellow bands. Their bodies are typically slender, covered with smooth, shiny scales.
These snakes possess a small, rounded head that is predominantly black from the snout to just behind the eyes, with a wide yellow band often present immediately following the black cap. Coral snakes have fixed, small fangs located at the front of their mouths, distinguishing them from pit vipers that have retractable fangs. Their tails also display a unique pattern, typically banded only in black and yellow, lacking red rings. In the United States, coral snakes are primarily found in the southeastern and southwestern regions, inhabiting areas like coastal plains, pine forests, and sandhills.
Harmless Mimics
Several non-venomous snakes mimic the colorful appearance of coral snakes, often leading to misidentification. Among the most common are the Scarlet Kingsnake and the Scarlet Snake. These mimics also exhibit red, black, and yellow or white bands, contributing to the visual confusion.
The Scarlet Kingsnake, a type of milk snake, has bands that completely encircle its body, similar to the coral snake. However, its head is typically red, and its red bands touch black bands, not yellow ones. The Scarlet Snake features red, black, and yellow or white banding. Unlike coral snakes and kingsnakes, its bands do not completely encircle its belly, which is often cream-white and unpatterned. Its snout is red and somewhat pointed.
Telling Them Apart
Differentiating between a coral snake and its harmless mimics relies on observing the precise order of their colored bands. For North American species, a widely used mnemonic is “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; Red touches black, venom lack.” This rhyme indicates that if red bands are directly adjacent to yellow bands, it is likely a venomous coral snake. Conversely, if red bands are touching black bands, the snake is typically a non-venomous mimic like a kingsnake or scarlet snake.
Beyond the banding pattern, the color of the snake’s head can provide an additional clue. Coral snakes generally have a black snout, while their mimics often have a red snout. The small, rounded head of a coral snake, often indistinguishable from its neck, contrasts with the slightly more distinct head shapes of some mimics. These distinctions are generally reliable for U.S. species, but variations can occur, so caution is always advised.
Encountering a Snake
When encountering any snake, it is important to observe it from a safe distance and never attempt to handle, capture, or kill it. Most snakes, including venomous ones, are not aggressive unless provoked or threatened. If a snake is found in an area where it poses a direct risk, such as inside a home, contact local animal control or a wildlife expert for safe removal.
In the event of a snakebite from a suspected coral snake, immediate medical attention is necessary. Symptoms from a coral snake bite can be delayed for several hours, making prompt evaluation crucial even if initial symptoms are mild. It is important to remain calm and keep the bitten limb still and at heart level. Avoid traditional first-aid methods such as applying tourniquets, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out the venom, as these actions can worsen the situation. Medical professionals will assess the bite and determine the appropriate course of action, which may include administering antivenom.