Micrurus tener

(Baird & Girard, 1853)

Vernacular names
English : Texas coral snake
French : Serpent corail du Texas

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Elapidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a maximum length of 1 meter but are generally closer to 60 cm. Males are smaller than females. Scales are smooth, head barely distinct from neck. Wide red and black bands separated with narrow yellow rings.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in south USA, from Louisiana to western Texas, and in Mexico, south to Veracruz, west to San Luis Potosi. Lives in forested areas, tall grasslands, woodlands, gardens, up to 2000 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is common and can thrive in many different habitats, including suburban gardens and backyards. Its populations are globally stable.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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