Texas Coral Snake
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Squamata Family: Elapidae Genus: Micrurus
Species: Micrurus fulvius
Though shy and timid, the Texas Coral Snake is still infamous for its red on yellow pattern. “Red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, friend of Jack” is a rhyme commonly used to distinguish the venomous coral snake from other harmless species, but it is only applicable in North America. This species is rarely seen because it is secretive and spends a majority of its time underground. It rarely bites due to its timid nature, but you should always back away if you see one. It has neurotoxic venom which is a venom that is destructive to nervous tissues. Although the males of this species have longer tails than females, females have a greater overall length. This species lays 3 to 12 eggs in June that hatch in September.
Conservation status: Least concern
Description: Black snout; the body has long black and red bands divided by short bright yellow bands; smooth scales throughout
Size: Ranges from 18 to 30 inches in length
Diet: Small frogs, toads, fish, lizards, earthworms, and small rodents
Habitat: Secretive; spends most of its time underground
Defensive behavior: Venomous; timid and reluctant to bite; may elevate and curl tail; neurotoxic venom
Credit source: The University of Georgia Herpetology Program
