A few years ago, I was hiking in the woods of southern Texas when I saw a brightly coloured snake moving across the path. At first look, I wasn’t sure if it was a dangerous coral snake or a safe false coral snake, but my heart was beating fast either way. I didn’t want to take a chance because I had heard that it can be hard to tell the difference between these two kinds. Knowing how to tell the difference between a real coral snake and a fake one could be important for my safety, I looked at the colour patterns very carefully before choosing to slowly back away. Because of that, I learnt more about the coral vs falsa coral argument so I would be better prepared the next time I saw one.
Coral vs Falsa Coral Snake
The similarity in color patterns between coral snakes and false coral snakes is one of nature’s most effective mimicry strategies. Coral snakes are highly venomous, while false coral snakes, though often confused with their venomous counterparts, are harmless. Understanding the distinction between these two can be crucial for anyone living in or visiting regions where these snakes are found.
Identifying Features
The primary confusion between coral snakes and false coral snakes lies in their similar coloring, consisting of alternating bands of red, black, and yellow (or white) along their bodies. However, there are visual cues that can help differentiate the two species.
| Feature | Coral Snake | False Coral Snake |
|---|---|---|
| Color Banding | Red, yellow, black bands in specific order | Similar bands but with different arrangements |
| Band Arrangement | “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow” | “Red touch black, friend of Jack” |
| Head Shape | Rounded, often indistinct from the neck | Broader, more triangular head |
| Body Size | Thin, elongated, usually under 3 feet | Can be bulkier depending on the species |
Coral Snake Identification
Coral snakes have distinct bands of red, yellow, and black. The most famous rhyme to remember is: “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow”, meaning that the dangerous coral snake’s red and yellow bands touch each other.
False Coral Snake Identification
False coral snakes mimic the same bright colors, but the arrangement is different. In false corals, red touches black instead of yellow, which can help you recognize the non-venomous species: “Red touch black, friend of Jack.”
Are Coral Snakes aggressive?
Coral snakes are often shy and reclusive, preferring to avoid human contact. They only bite when they feel threatened or cornered. Even though their venom is highly toxic, coral snakes deliver venom through small fangs, meaning bites are rare.
On the other hand, false coral snakes are also non-aggressive. They share the same reclusive nature but lack venom, making them harmless to humans. If encountered, false coral snakes are more likely to flee than attack.
Which one is more dangerous?
The venom of a coral snake is neurotoxic, which can cause paralysis and respiratory failure if left untreated. Despite being venomous, coral snake bites are rare due to their secretive behavior. However, if bitten, immediate medical attention is required.
| Feature | Coral Snake | False Coral Snake |
|---|---|---|
| Venom Type | Neurotoxic | None |
| Symptoms of Bite | Paralysis, respiratory failure | None (false coral bites are harmless) |
| Treatment | Requires antivenom and medical care | No treatment needed |
False coral snakes have no venom, making them completely harmless to humans, even though their appearance might induce fear due to their similarity to coral snakes.
Where do Coral and False Coral Snakes live?
Both coral snakes and false coral snakes are found in similar environments, including forests, grasslands, and sometimes suburban areas, depending on the region.
| Coral Snake Habitat | False Coral Snake Habitat |
|---|---|
| Southeast USA, Central and South America | USA, Central and South America, Africa |
| Prefer moist environments, including forests and wetlands | Wide-ranging habitats, including dry regions |
Coral snakes are most commonly found in the Southeastern United States, Central America, and parts of South America. They favor moist environments like forests, marshes, and areas with dense vegetation.
False coral snakes are more widespread and can be found in similar regions as coral snakes. Some species even thrive in drier habitats like savannas and grasslands, further adding to the confusion when identifying these snakes.
How do they differ?
The easiest way to differentiate between coral and false coral snakes is by looking at their color bands. Follow the famous rhyme: “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow. Red touch black, friend of Jack.”
| Characteristic | Coral Snake | False Coral Snake |
|---|---|---|
| Color Banding | Red and yellow bands touch | Red and black bands touch |
| Venomous | Yes | No |
| Behavior | Shy, can bite if provoked | Harmless, non-aggressive |
| Habitat | Moist, forested regions | Wider range, including drier areas |
While this is a helpful guide, keep in mind that regional species of coral and false coral snakes may vary slightly, so it’s always a good idea to exercise caution when encountering brightly colored snakes.
Coral Snake and False Coral Snake Myths
- Myth: All brightly colored snakes are dangerous.
- Not true. Many harmless species, including false corals, use mimicry to resemble dangerous ones like the coral snake.
- Myth: Coral snakes are aggressive.
- Not true. Coral snakes are shy and usually avoid confrontation, only biting when provoked.
- Myth: You can tell a coral snake by its head shape.
- This is only partially true, as both coral and false coral snakes can have similar head shapes.
Final say
My encounter with what turned out to be a false coral snake was a wake-up call for how important it is to know the difference between these look-alike species. As a nature lover, I realized that being able to correctly identify wildlife can make outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable. Since that hike, I’ve come across several more false coral snakes, and thanks to learning about their distinguishing features, I no longer panic when I see one. Understanding that coral snakes are venomous and false coral snakes are not has helped me feel more confident in the wild, but I still keep a healthy distance from any brightly colored snake just to be safe.
