Eastern Coral snakes, Micrurus fulvius, have a bright, glossy, distinct pattern. Their heads are black and their tails are yellow and black. Red and black rings separated by thin yellow rings make up the rest of their body.
An adult Coral snake will grow to 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 feet long. Prey consists of frogs, lizards, and other snakes. Coral snakes are the only venomous snakes in Florida that are part of the cobra (Elapidae) family, therefore, they lay eggs.
From scrubs to swamps, Eastern Coral snakes can be found in numerous habitats throughout Florida. Because they spend most of their time hiding under logs or underground, an occasional Coral snake sighting can be a wonderful discovery.
A bite from this venomous snake is extremely rare, however, their bites are dangerous to pets and people. Bites occur when the Coral snake is threatened. When you discover a coral snake, simply give it space so we can peacefully coexist.
Photo credit: Dan Kon
