Mexican Milk Snake
Lampropeltis annulata
A tricolor banded milk snake native to northeastern Mexico and southern Texas, harmless despite its coral snake-like appearance.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Northeastern Mexico and southern Texas
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Overview
The Mexican Milk Snake ranges across northeastern Mexico into parts of southern Texas, occupying a variety of arid and semi-arid habitats. Its bright banding mimics venomous coral snakes sharing its range.
It is a commonly recognized member of the widespread milk snake complex due to its accessible range along the US-Mexico border.
How to identify it
- Alternating bands of red, black, and yellow/white
- Black bands bordering red saddles
- Smooth scales, rounded head
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from Texas coral snakes by band sequence (red touching black rather than yellow) and head shape
Habitat & range
Found in arid scrubland, grassland, and rocky habitats of northeastern Mexico and southern Texas.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, especially active in warm months. Preys on small mammals, lizards, and other snakes. Reproduces by laying eggs in concealed sites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mexican Milk Snake dangerous?
No, it is entirely non-venomous, though it resembles venomous coral snakes.
How can it be distinguished from a coral snake?
By its banding sequence where red touches black, and its rounded, non-triangular head.
Where does it occur?
In northeastern Mexico and southern Texas.
Mexican Milk Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Mexican Milk Snake.
