How to Identify the Coral Snake

The coral snake is often the last snake thought of when we consider the dangerous snakes of North America. In actuality, the coral snake is one of the most toxic snakes in the world. The reason it is not responsible for more deaths is because it has a much smaller mouth and fangs than the pit viper counterparts that inhabit the United States. Drop for drop, the venom from a coral snake is as deadly as it gets in North America. Also, many non venomous species mimic the coral snake quite effectively. Knowing how to identify the coral snake could mean the difference between life and death.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know the range of the coral snake. They are found throughout a very large portion of the Southeast from North Carolina down to Florida. Also, they are found in Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. This large area of country has allowed for the coral snake to remain abundant throughout its range.

2. Realize that the coral snake is a very reclusive snake. While all snakes share this attribute, coral snakes in particular prefer to remain completely hidden and are rare sights in the wild. They live in dry woodlands, and prefer heavy vegetation to conceal themselves better. They are sometimes found in rock crevices as well.

3. Remember that the coral snake has three distinct, alternating colors. The coral snake is very bright with red, yellow and black bands alternating down the length of it's body. These colors are always in the same pattern.

4. Remember that the coral snake has three colors. Red, black and yellow. The red and black yellow is harmless. Red, yellow and black is deadly.

5. Respect the coral snake in spite of its small stature. The coral snake only grows to about 30 inches in length, and is very slender. In spite of this small size, the venom of a coral snake is comparable with the cobras and mambas of Africa and Asia. The venom is neurotoxic, and will shut down your nervous system. This leads to cardiac arrest and death if not treated in time.

6. Notice the small, flattened head of the coral snake. This head is rounded, and has a pair of non retractable fangs that can deliver venom into its prey. The commonly held assertion that the coral snake can only bite the fingers and toes is false. The coral snake can bite any fold of skin easily.

7. Realize that in spite of its secretive, docile nature, the coral snake will bite if handled. Another myth about coral snakes is that you can safely hold them by the tail. This dangerous reptile is capable of climbing its own body to deliver a surprising bite and is adept at swinging out to the side to bite as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep a safe distance from the coral snake of at least 10 feet.
• Be mindful while walking in the coral snake's range of hidden snakes.
• Never attempt to handle a coral snake.
• Do not depend on nursery rhymes or myths to determine a coral snake's identity.