Nueces Coral Snake
Micrurus tener microgalbineus
A regional coral snake population from south Texas, closely related to the Texas coral snake.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
- Range
- South Texas, USA
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Overview
The Nueces Coral Snake is a population of coral snake associated with the Nueces River drainage of south Texas, treated by some authorities as a subspecies of the wider-ranging Texas coral snake complex. It shares the classic red-yellow-black ringed pattern of North American coral snakes.
It is a shy, burrowing elapid rarely seen despite its striking coloration.
How to identify it
- Broad red and black rings separated by narrower yellow rings encircling the entire body
- Small blunt black snout
- Smooth, shiny scales
- Round pupils
- Remember: red touches yellow in coral snakes of this region, unlike harmless mimics where red touches black
- Head not distinct from neck
Habitat & range
Found in brushland, coastal plains, and open woodlands of south Texas near the Nueces River watershed. Often found under debris, leaf litter, or burrowed into loose soil.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, most active during warm, humid conditions and after rain. Diet consists mainly of smaller snakes and lizards. Lays eggs in early summer. Reluctant to bite, often only doing so under sustained provocation.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nueces Coral Snake a distinct species?
It is generally regarded as a population or subspecies within the Texas coral snake complex rather than a fully separate species.
How can I tell it from a mimic?
In this coral snake, red bands touch yellow bands, whereas mimics have red touching black.
Where in Texas is it found?
It occurs in south Texas around the Nueces River drainage.
What does it eat?
It feeds mainly on smaller snakes and lizards.
Nueces Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Nueces Coral Snake.
