The Difference Between Coral Snake and King Snake

Coral snakes and king snakes are both members of the family Colubridae, but they are two distinct species that have some significant differences. While there is some confusion between the two species, it is important to understand the key differences between them so that you can accurately identify which one you are looking at. In this article, we will provide an overview of the differences between coral snakes and king snakes.

Overview of Coral Snakes and King Snakes

Coral snakes and king snakes are two species of snake that are found in a variety of regions around the world. Both belong to the family Colubridae, which includes a wide variety of non-venomous and mildly venomous snakes. Coral snakes are highly venomous and are found in tropical and subtropical regions, while king snakes are non-venomous and can be found in many different habitats.

Coral snakes are typically small to medium-sized snakes, with an average length of 2-3 feet. They are bright and colorful snakes, with a pattern of red, yellow, and black bands that run the length of their bodies. King snakes, on the other hand, are usually larger snakes with an average length of 3-5 feet. They are usually brown, black, or gray in color and may have stripes or bands running along their bodies.

Physical Characteristics

Coral snakes have a small, triangular head and a short, tapered tail. Their scales are smooth and glossy, and they have wide eyes that are usually yellow in color. King snakes, on the other hand, have a larger head and a thicker body. They have keeled scales that are more rough to the touch, as well as round eyes that are usually black in color.

In terms of size, coral snakes are usually smaller than king snakes. They typically reach a length of 2-3 feet, while king snakes can reach lengths up to 5 feet. Coral snakes are also much thinner than king snakes, with a slender body and a thin tail.

Habitat and Behavior

Coral snakes are typically found in tropical and subtropical climates, in areas such as deserts, forests, and wetlands. They are usually active during the day and spend much of their time underground or in burrows. King snakes, on the other hand, are found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, forests, and grasslands. They are usually nocturnal and can be found climbing trees or hiding in burrows.

Coral snakes are usually solitary creatures and will only come together to mate. King snakes, on the other hand, are social creatures and can be found in groups. They are also more active than coral snakes and can be seen out and about during the day.

Venom and Bites

Coral snakes are highly venomous and their bite can be fatal to humans. They have a neurotoxic venom that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure, and their bite can be very painful. King snakes, on the other hand, are non-venomous and their bite is not dangerous to humans.

Identification

It is important to be able to accurately identify coral snakes and king snakes in order to avoid any potential danger. The easiest way to tell the two species apart is by looking at their coloration. Coral snakes are brightly colored with a pattern of red, yellow, and black bands. King snakes, on the other hand, are usually brown, black, or gray in color and may have stripes or bands running along their bodies.

It is also important to note that coral snakes are usually smaller than king snakes, with an average length of 2-3 feet. King snakes, on the other hand, are usually larger snakes with an average length of 3-5 feet. Additionally, coral snakes have a small, triangular head and a short, tapered tail, while king snakes have a larger head and a thicker body.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coral snakes and king snakes are two distinct species that have some significant differences. While both belong to the family Colubridae, there are some key differences between the two that are important to understand. Coral snakes are highly venomous and king snakes are non-venomous, and the two species can be easily identified by their coloration and size. It is important to be able to accurately identify which species you are looking at in order to avoid any potential danger.