Micrurus fulvius

Micrurus fulvius, commonly known as the Eastern Coral Snake, is a species of venomous snake in the family Elapidae. The species is native to the southeastern United States. It is the most venomous snake in North America, and its bite can be fatal to humans.

Description

The Eastern Coral Snake is a small, brightly colored snake. Its body is covered in a pattern of red, yellow, and black bands. The snake's head is black, and it has a pair of hollow fangs through which it injects venom.

Distribution and habitat

The Eastern Coral Snake is found in the southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Florida and west to Texas. It inhabits a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and marshes.

Behavior

The Eastern Coral Snake is a secretive and elusive species. It spends most of its time hidden under leaf litter or in burrows. It is primarily active at night, when it hunts for its prey, which includes other snakes, lizards, and small mammals.

Venom

The venom of the Eastern Coral Snake is highly toxic. It contains neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure. Despite its venomous nature, the snake is not aggressive and will only bite in self-defense.

Conservation status

The Eastern Coral Snake is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, its population is declining due to habitat loss and human persecution.

See also

• List of venomous snakes
• Snakebite