The venomous coral snake, with its brilliant bands of red, yellow, and black, uses its striking coloration as an effective warning sign. Several non-venomous species have evolved to mimic this pattern, making immediate and accurate identification crucial for safety. Misidentification can lead to unnecessary fear or a dangerous encounter. Recognizing the subtle differences in their color patterns and physical features is the first step in safely coexisting with these banded reptiles.
The Coral Snake Profile
The coral snake belongs to the Elapidae family, which includes cobras and mambas, and is known for its potent neurotoxic venom. In the United States, the two primary species are the Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) and the Arizona Coral Snake (Micruroides euryxanthus). The Eastern Coral Snake is generally found across the southeastern U.S., from North Carolina to Louisiana, favoring habitats with well-drained, sandy soils like pine flatwoods and sandhills.
These snakes are typically slender, with the Eastern species reaching lengths of around 2 to 3 feet. Their venom is a powerful neurotoxin that attacks the central nervous system, potentially leading to paralysis and respiratory failure. Coral snakes possess short, fixed fangs and often employ a “chewing” motion to deliver venom. They are generally secretive and reluctant to bite people unless threatened or handled.
The Harmless Imposters
The striking pattern of the coral snake is mimicked by several non-venomous species. The two most common mimics in the U.S. are the Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides) and the Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea). These species are found across the southeastern United States, often sharing the same habitat as the Eastern Coral Snake.
The Scarlet Kingsnake is a type of milk snake that displays a vibrant tri-color pattern of red, black, and yellow or white bands. The Scarlet Snake is smaller and more secretive, spending much of its time burrowed in loose soil, though it is also banded in red, black, and a lighter color. These mimics gain a protective advantage because predators avoid them, having learned to avoid the venomous coral snake.
Key Distinctions and Identification Rules
The most reliable way to distinguish the venomous coral snake from its non-venomous mimics in North America is by observing the arrangement of the colored bands. The popular mnemonic, “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; Red touches black, venom lack,” offers a simple rule for field identification. This means that on a coral snake, the red bands are bordered by yellow bands.
Conversely, on the non-venomous mimics, the red bands are separated from the yellow or white bands by black bands (red touches black). This rhyme is specific to the species found in the United States and may not apply to coral snakes or their mimics in other parts of the world.
Secondary Identification Cues
Secondary identification cues can also help confirm the species. The venomous coral snake typically has a blunt, rounded head that is completely black from the snout to just past the eyes, followed by a yellow band. In contrast, the Scarlet Kingsnake and Scarlet Snake usually have a reddish or mottled snout.
Another difference is that the coral snake’s bands completely encircle the body, while the bands on the Scarlet Snake may not extend fully across the belly. Furthermore, the coral snake’s red bands often contain small black flecks or spots, a feature generally absent in the mimics.
Safety and Encounter Protocol
Encountering any snake with the red, yellow, and black pattern should be approached with caution, even if you are confident in your identification. The safest protocol is to avoid the snake entirely and maintain distance. Never attempt to handle, capture, or harm the snake, as most bites occur during interaction.
If a bite from a coral snake is suspected, immediate medical attention is mandatory, regardless of whether symptoms are present. The neurotoxic venom may have a delayed onset of effects, sometimes taking several hours before signs like muscle weakness or respiratory distress appear. While awaiting emergency medical services, the victim should remain calm and immobile to slow the potential spread of venom.
It is important not to use a tourniquet, cut the wound, or attempt to suck out the venom, as these actions can cause more harm than good. All suspected coral snake bites require observation in a hospital setting for at least 24 hours.