Coral Snake vs. King Snake — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on December 14, 2023
Coral Snakes are venomous with red-yellow-black bands, while King Snakes are non-venomous with red-black-white bands.
Difference Between Coral Snake and King Snake
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Coral Snakes are recognized by their distinct red-yellow-black color bands, which serves as a warning to predators. In contrast, King Snakes sport a similar but distinct pattern, having red-black-white or red-black-yellow bands, mimicking the appearance of the venomous Coral Snake.
The venom of the Coral Snake is potent and can be lethal if not treated, making them one of the most dangerous snakes in North America. The King Snake, on the other hand, is non-venomous and poses no immediate threat to humans from its bite.
Coral Snakes belong to the Elapidae family, which includes other venomous snakes such as cobras and mambas. King Snakes, however, belong to the Colubridae family, which encompasses a wide variety of non-venomous snake species.
An interesting relationship exists between Coral Snakes and King Snakes. While the Coral Snake is venomous, the King Snake is immune to its venom and is known to prey upon Coral Snakes.
The phrase "Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; red touches black, friend of Jack" has been coined to differentiate between the bands of Coral Snakes and King Snakes. While not foolproof, this saying can aid in distinguishing the two based on their patterns.
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Comparison Chart
Venom
Venomous
Non-venomous
Color Band Pattern
Red-yellow-black
Red-black-white/yellow
Family
Elapidae
Colubridae
Known Prey
Small vertebrates and other snakes
Other snakes, including Coral Snakes
Associated Rhyme
"Red touches yellow, kill a fellow"
"Red touches black, friend of Jack"
Compare with Definitions
Coral Snake
A venomous snake found primarily in North America.
She was careful not to disturb the Coral Snake she spotted in the grass.
King Snake
A non-venomous snake primarily found in North America.
The King Snake she found in her garden was harmless and quite beneficial.
Coral Snake
Recognized by its distinct red-yellow-black band pattern.
The bright bands on the Coral Snake serve as a warning to potential predators.
King Snake
Known to have a resistance to venom, preying on venomous snakes.
The King Snake can eat a venomous snake without being affected by the venom.
Coral Snake
Dangerous due to its potent neurotoxic venom.
One should always seek immediate medical attention after a Coral Snake bite.
King Snake
A member of the Colubridae family, comprising mostly non-venomous snakes.
Like many harmless species, the King Snake belongs to the Colubridae family.
Coral Snake
Prefers habitats like forests, marshes, and wooded areas.
While hiking in the woods, he learned to be cautious of Coral Snakes.
King Snake
Valued in controlling rodent populations naturally.
Farmers appreciate the King Snake for keeping the rodent population in check.
Coral Snake
A member of the Elapidae family, akin to cobras.
Like the cobra, the Coral Snake belongs to the Elapidae family.
King Snake
Recognized by its red-black-white or red-black-yellow bands.
The King Snake's bands often get it mistaken for the venomous Coral Snake.
Common Curiosities
Do King Snakes have venom?
No, King Snakes are non-venomous and pose no venom threat to humans.
How can I differentiate between a Coral Snake and a King Snake based on color bands?
For Coral Snakes, red touches yellow; for King Snakes, red touches black.
Are Coral Snakes venomous?
Yes, Coral Snakes are venomous and their bites can be lethal.
Why do King Snakes have a similar pattern to Coral Snakes?
King Snakes mimic the pattern of Coral Snakes as a form of Batesian mimicry to deter predators.
How can I safely handle a Coral Snake or King Snake?
It's best not to handle wild snakes. If necessary, seek professional assistance.
What should I do if bitten by a Coral Snake?
Seek immediate medical attention as Coral Snake venom can be lethal.
Are King Snakes beneficial to have around?
Yes, King Snakes help control rodent and other pest populations.
What do Coral Snakes typically eat?
Coral Snakes feed on small vertebrates and other snakes.
Where are Coral Snakes primarily found?
Coral Snakes are found in parts of North America, especially in the southeastern U.S.
Can a King Snake eat a Coral Snake?
Yes, King Snakes are immune to Coral Snake venom and can prey on them.
Do King Snakes make good pets?
Yes, many people keep King Snakes as pets due to their docile nature.
How can I identify a young Coral Snake or King Snake?
Juvenile snakes have similar patterns to adults, but it's always best to exercise caution.
Which snake is larger, the Coral Snake or the King Snake?
Size varies, but King Snakes generally grow larger than Coral Snakes.
Can Coral Snakes and King Snakes coexist in the same habitat?
Yes, they can share habitats, but King Snakes may prey on Coral Snakes.
How long can Coral Snakes and King Snakes live?
With proper care, both species can live for several years, often over a decade in captivity.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
