EASTERN CORAL SNAKE (AMERICAN COBRA): Evading Confrontation

A Member of the Elapid Family, Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) has toxic venom that attacks the nervous system and kills the prey fast. Eastern Coral Snake's brilliant colors of yellow, red, and black act as a warning. If provoked, this Snake will bring his head in the coils of his body and raise his tail. Then Eastern Coral Snake makes a popping sound. Be mindful of the Snake's warning signs, allow Him to leave, and you will be better off.

This secretive, nocturnal Snake warns people by his bright colors and by his popping noise. The shy Eastern Coral Snake rarely bites people, preferring to avoid a confrontation. When walking where Eastern Coral Snake lives, people should make plenty of noise to allow the Snake to slip away unnoticed.

What Eastern Coral Snake teaches is how to avoid unnecessary confrontations by alerting people to your ability to harm them if provoked. Conversely, by paying attention to warning signs, you can evade confrontations.

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Science Notes:

1.       Coral Snakes are divided into two groups – the Old World Genus (Calliophis) and New World Genera.  The New World snakes are further sub-divided into the Leptomicrurus of the Andes, Micruroides of Arizona (USA), and the Micrurus.

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