Arizona Coral Snake

The Arizona coral snake (Micruroides euryxanthus) is the sole coral snake species found in the arid Southwest, inhabiting the Sonoran Desert region of Arizona and northwestern Mexico. It is smaller than its eastern relatives and belongs to a different genus.

Its venom, while medically distinct, is generally considered less dangerous to humans than that of eastern coral snakes, and no confirmed human fatalities are documented, though it remains a venomous snake warranting caution.

A small, brightly ringed desert snake.

• Broad red and black rings separated by narrower white or pale yellow rings
• Red bands touch the pale (yellow/white) bands, similar to the pattern rule for other North American coral snakes
• Small, blunt head and smooth scales
• Round pupils
• Adults typically 0.3-0.6 m, notably smaller than eastern or Texas coral snakes

Found in desert scrub, rocky foothills, and semi-arid grassland of the Sonoran Desert region, including Arizona and adjacent Sonora and Sinaloa, Mexico. It is largely fossorial, sheltering under rocks and in loose soil, and often emerges after warm rains.

Secretive and nocturnal to crepuscular, spending most daylight hours hidden underground or under surface cover. It feeds mainly on smaller snakes and lizards. When threatened, it may curl its tail and expose the bright underside as a warning display rather than biting. Reproduction is oviparous.