Desert Coral Snake
Micrurus distans
A Mexican Pacific coast coral snake adapted to dry tropical habitats, with bold red, black, and white/yellow tricolor rings.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Pacific coastal lowlands of Mexico (Sinaloa to Oaxaca)
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Overview
The Desert coral snake, despite its common name, primarily inhabits dry tropical deciduous forest and thorn scrub along Mexico's Pacific coastal lowlands rather than true desert. It ranges from Sinaloa south to Oaxaca.
It is one of several coral snake species adapted to seasonally dry habitats in western Mexico, sheltering underground during the hottest, driest periods and emerging with seasonal rains.
How to identify it
- Red, black, and white/yellow tricolor rings in repeating triads
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small black-capped head, indistinct from neck
- Round pupils
- Moderate body length, typically under 1 m
- Distinguished from other Pacific coast coral snakes by ring counts and geographic range
Habitat & range
Found in dry tropical deciduous forest, thorn scrub, and semi-arid lowlands along Mexico's Pacific coast from Sinaloa to Oaxaca. Shelters in loose soil, under rocks, and in leaf litter, especially during dry seasons.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, becoming more surface-active during the rainy season. Feeds mainly on other snakes and elongate lizards. Reproduces by laying eggs, typically timed with seasonal rains.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Desert coral snake live in true desert?
No, despite the name it primarily inhabits dry tropical forest and thorn scrub along Mexico's Pacific coast, not true desert.
Where is it found?
Along the Pacific coastal lowlands of Mexico from Sinaloa to Oaxaca.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it has neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes but is rarely encountered due to its burrowing habits.
Desert Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Desert Coral Snake.
