Coral Snake

Micrurus

Geographical Locale

Coral Snake image (Micrurus) | Rentokil Pest Control
  • North and South America.

Appearance

  • Red, yellow/white, and black colored banding.
  • Average around 24" in length, but sightings of snakes up to 60" have been reported.

Venom

  • Highly venomous.
  • Venom is neurotoxic and attacks the nervous system.

The Bite

  • Coral snakes are not aggressive, most bites occur due to accidental handling, eg while gardening. If disturbed they bury their heads and wave their tails in the air.
  • They have small fangs, so bites are frequently ineffective.
  • However a bite can be life threatening and immediate treatment should be sought.
  • Initially symptoms include slurred speech, double vision, difficulty swallowing, but can progress to muscular paralysis or respiratory or cardiac failure if not treated.

Lifecycle

  • Female usually lays 3 to 5 eggs in mid Summer.
  • Eggs hatch out in the open.
  • Young snakes hatch 2-3 months later.

Habits

  • Location – They are generally nocturnal, spending most of their time in the ground or within leaf litter. Will be more visible in wet weather and during the breeding season.
  • Feeding - Small lizards, snakes, reptiles and amphibians.

The contents of this page are  for information only. Rentokil UK do not treat reptiles.