Identifying Red, Yellow, and Black Snakes: Coral Snakes vs. Mimics

The fascinating world of snakes often presents us with some remarkably colorful and visually striking species. Among them, snakes that exhibit vibrant combinations of red, yellow, and black are some of the most recognizable. These snakes often capture our attention not just for their beauty but also for their possibly dangerous nature. This article delves into one such snake, the Coral Snake, along with its less toxic lookalike, the Scarlet Kingsnake.

Eastern Coral Snake: Micrurus fulvius

The Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius), also known as the 'Coral Snake' in North America, is one of the most venomous species in its subfamily. It is characterized by its distinctive red, yellow, and black bands. Growing up to 2 to 3 feet in length, this snake is highly venomous, with a potent neurotoxic venom capable of causing paralysis and, in severe cases, death.

The Scarlet Kingsnake: A Common Misidentification

Another snake with a similar color pattern is the Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides). This snake is often mistaken for a Coral Snake due to its similar coloration of red, black, and yellow bands. However, there is a crucial difference: in the Coral Snake, the red bands are bordered by yellow, while in the Kingsnake, the red bands are bordered by black. This distinction can be remembered with the popular rhyme:

Red on yellow, kill a fellow
Red on black, friend of Jack

This rhyme helps in distinguishing the deadly Coral Snake from its less harmful mimic.

Advanced Warning: Corals and Their Many Mimics

It's important to note that both Coral Snakes and their mimics are highly venomous and should be avoided. While the Coral Snake is indeed venomous and dangerous, its mimic counterparts, such as the Kingsnake, are not venomous but can still pose a threat if they prey on other snakes or consume highly toxic prey. TheKingsnake is part of the suborder Colubridae and can be distinguished by its white or cream-colored bands instead of yellow.

Conclusion

When it comes to snakes that display red, yellow, and black banded patterns, the Coral Snake is one of the most recognizable and venomous species. On the other hand, the Scarlet Kingsnake is a great example of how snakes can mimic the appearance of more dangerous species for protection. Understanding the differences and recognizing these patterns is crucial for one's safety in snake-infested areas.

Additional Reading and Resources

For more detailed information on snakes and their identification, check out the following resources:
Eastern Coral Snake - Wikipedia Scarlet Kingsnake - Wikipedia Snakes of the Cherokee National Military Park