Coral Snake vs. King – Which is More Harmful?
When it comes to venomous snakes, the Coral Snake and the King Snake are two of the most commonly known species. While both snakes might look similar in appearance, they have completely different venom and tendencies. In this article, we’ll compare and contrast the two to help you understand the differences between them.
The Coral Snake
Coral snakes are coral-colored and have distinctive red, yellow, and black bands. They are native to North and South America and are amongst the most venomous snakes in the world. The venom of a coral snake contains neurotoxins that can block the transmission of nerve signals, leading to respiratory failure and even death.
Coral Snakes aren’t particularly aggressive, but they will bite when threatened. They have a small mouth and fangs that make it difficult for them to bite through clothing or skin. Therefore, their bites are often inflicted on bare skin, such as on the hands or feet.
Coral snake venom is extremely potent, and there is no known antivenom for it. The treatment for a coral snake bite usually involves respiratory support and other intensive care measures. It’s important to note that not all coral snake bites result in death – in fact, the mortality rate is less than 10%.
The King Snake
King snakes are non-venomous snakes that are native to America. Also, they are called a friendly predator in the snake world because they eat other venomous snakes like the Coral Snake.
The King Snake has a distinct coloring pattern of black, white, and yellow or red bands. They have a triangular head with small eyes and smooth scales. They thrive in various habitats, from forests and deserts to grasslands and wetlands. Compared to the Coral Snake, King Snakes are more aggressive and active during the day.
Although King Snakes are non-venomous, they can still be dangerous to humans because of their size and strength. They are not known to attack people, but they can bite when provoked. Their bites are not fatal to humans, but they can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling.
It’s worth noting that King Snakes can be kept as pets because they are docile and adaptable. They can live for several years on a diet of rodents, birds, and reptiles.
Coral Snake vs. King – Key Differences
Now that we’ve had an overview of both Coral Snakes and King Snakes let’s talk about the key differences between the two.
Venomous vs. Non-venomous
The most significant difference between Coral Snakes and King Snakes is venom. Coral Snakes are highly venomous and can cause fatal bites if left untreated. On the other hand, King Snakes are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans, though they can bite if provoked.
Coloring
Coral Snakes have bright, distinctive bands of red, yellow or white against black scales. This coloring pattern is unique to Coral Snakes and often serves as a warning to predators. Comparatively, the King Snake has alternating bands of black, white, and yellow or red scales.
Aggressiveness
Coral Snakes are not known to be aggressive and will only bite when provoked. Kingsnakes, however, are more aggressive and defensive when threatened. They will use their strength and size to intimidate predators or attackers.
Habitat
Coral Snakes are found mainly in the southern United States, Mexico, and South America, in forests or wooded areas. In contrast, the King Snake can live in a variety of habitats, from grasslands to forests and mountains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Coral Snakes and King Snakes are fascinating creatures that share some similarities but are vastly different in their venom, behavior, and appearance. While the Coral Snake is highly venomous and poses a threat to humans, the King Snake is non-venomous and typically not dangerous to humans. However, it’s important to always remember to treat all snakes with respect and caution. If you do encounter a snake in the wild or are unsure of its species, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep a safe distance.