Coral snake Biology

Facts about the coral snake Coral snakes have very distinct color Red, yellow, and black bands They average about 40 inches in length

Venomous or not Red and yellow band touching are venomous Black and yellow non venomous

Where are coral snakes found?

Is this venomous or not?

Do we have coral snake in KY? The answer is no because coral snakes live in hot dry climates

What do coral snakes eat? Field mice Small rodents Eggs Birds

Facts about the coral snake Coral snakes are often confused with some non-venomous snakes of similar coloration. The milk snake and scarlet king snake have similar colors but in different patterns. Coral snakes are the only venomous snake in North America that is not a pit viper. Coral snakes are related to mambas, cobras, and sea snakes. A variety of rhymes have been developed to properly identify a coral snake. “Red on yellow, kill a fellow. Red on black, friend of Jack” is just one variation. No deaths from a coral snake bite have been reported since 1967 when the antivenin was developed. The life expectancy of a coral snake in the wild is unknown. In captivity, the snakes will live as long as seven years. The fangs of the coral snake cannot be flatted against the roof of the mouth. They are permanently erect.