There is much debate surrounding the topic of whether or not eastern coral snakes are poisonous. Some experts say that they are while others claim that they are not. The truth is eastern coral snakes do have venom but the amount of venom they produce is not enough to kill a human. However if you are bitten by one of these snakes you will need to seek medical attention immediately as their venom can cause serious health problems.
Eastern coral snakes are found in the eastern United States from Florida to Massachusetts. They are small snakes usually only growing to be about two feet long. Their bodies are slender and their colors are very distinctive. They have a red body with black bands that are separated by yellow bands. Eastern coral snakes are often confused with other snakes such as the milk snake or the king snake. However it is important to be able to identify them as they can be dangerous.
If you are bitten by an eastern coral snake it is important to seek medical attention immediately. These snakes have venom that can cause serious health problems such as tissue damage paralysis and even death. Symptoms of a coral snake bite may include pain at the site of the bite swelling nausea vomiting and difficulty breathing. If you are bitten by one of these snakes it is important to remain calm and call for help immediately.
It is important to remember that not all snakes are venomous and that not all venomous snakes are deadly. However it is still important to be careful when around all snakes and to seek medical attention immediately if you are bitten by one.
What is the scientific name for the eastern coral snake?
Micrurus fulvius
Where does the eastern coral snake typically live?
Southeastern United States
What does the eastern coral snake eat?
Small mammals lizards and other snakes
How does the eastern coral snake kill its prey?
It bites its prey and injects them with venom
How long can an eastern coral snake get?
Up to four feet long
How many colors are on an eastern coral snake?
Black red and yellow
What color is the eastern coral snake’s belly?
White
What is the eastern coral snake’s venom made up of?
neurotoxins
How much venom can an eastern coral snake inject at one time?
Up to four milligrams
What is the eastern coral snake’s LD50?
0.
4 mg/kg
How long does it take for an eastern coral snake’s venom to kill its prey?
Around an hour
How long does it take for an eastern coral snake’s venom to kill a human?
Around four to six hours
What are the symptoms of a human bitten by an eastern coral snake?
Numbness tingling muscle paralysis and respiratory failure
How many people die each year from eastern coral snake bites in the United States?
1-2
What is the best thing to do if you are bitten by an eastern coral snake?
Seek medical attention immediately and try to keep the affected area still
