Recognizing Red and Black Snake Varieties

During hikes in North America or other regions, you might come across a red and black snake, prompting you to question whether it’s a dangerous venomous species or a non-threatening one like the milk snake.

This is a reasonable concern, as numerous species have developed similar color patterns to signal whether they are venomous or harmless. Below, we’ll explore some red and black snake species and help you understand the level of caution required when encountering them.

3 Red and Black Snakes

Below are some of the most frequently observed snakes with red and black coloration.

1. Black Swamp Snake

Unlike snakes with multicolored bands, the black swamp snake has a solid black upper body, complemented by red-orange scales on its underside.

Typically found in Florida, this species reaches a length of around 15 inches (38 cm) and can coil up to roughly the size of a human hand. These snakes are nonvenomous and pose no threat to humans.

2. Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus)

Similar to the black swamp snake, the ring-necked snake features a dark grey upper body and a vibrant red or yellow underside. However, it also displays a distinct colored ring around its neck, which is the origin of its name.

Ring-necked snakes are commonly found roaming forest floors across the east coast and into the midwest, preying on worms and other small creatures. Their saliva contains a toxin that immobilizes prey, but bites on humans are uncommon and would likely feel no worse than a bee sting.

3. Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus)

Red-bellied black snakes share a striking resemblance to both the black swamp snake and the ring-necked snake. However, this species is exclusively located in the wetlands along Australia's east coast.

These Australian snakes possess a mild venom used to immobilize small prey. While they typically steer clear of humans, they may bite if accidentally provoked. The venom can lead to symptoms such as swelling at the bite site, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and abdominal discomfort.

3 Red, Black and Yellow Snakes

1. Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius)

The eastern coral snake ranks among North America's most perilous venomous snakes, second only to pit vipers. It thrives in the sandy soils of grasslands and swamps across the southeastern United States.

Similar to many other American snake species, the coral snake displays striking yellow, red, and black bands along its body.

Unlike most species, its yellow and black bands directly touch, aligning with the well-known rhyme, "Black touches yellow, kill a fellow." Coral snakes share a lineage with cobras and possess a potent neurotoxin in their fangs, making it crucial to avoid handling or disturbing them in their natural habitat.

2. Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)

Milk snakes are widespread across North America. They prefer to conceal themselves in tight spaces such as rodent burrows or barns, which inspired their name.

While some milk snake subspecies appear in muted grey or brown tones, others boast vibrant, multicolored bands resembling those of coral snakes. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that their red bands directly border the black ones.

Regardless of the subspecies, milk snakes are among the most docile snakes you might find in the wild, and they are popular as pets. They primarily feed on small prey like mice, and their bites are typically too feeble to break human skin.

3. Scarlet King Snake (Lampropeltis elapsoides)

The scarlet king snake is a medium-sized serpent that closely resembles banded milk snakes, featuring red and black bands that touch. Despite their similarities, they are now classified as distinct species.

This snake is often found beneath logs and bark in the pine forests of the east coast. It uses its constrictor muscles to prey on other snakes, lizards, and rodents. Bites on humans are uncommon and generally pose no threat.

Identifying Snakes With Rhyming

When identifying snakes in the wild, you might recall this well-known yet grim rhyme: "Red touches yellow, kill a fellow. Red touches black, you're ok, Jack." This saying refers to the black, red, and yellow bands found on many North American snake species.

If yellow bands are next to red bands, you're likely dealing with a venomous coral snake and should keep your distance. However, if red touches black, it could be one of several harmless species.

It’s also important to note that desert-dwelling venomous snakes, such as pit vipers and rattlesnakes, often have brown bodies instead of the multicolored bands seen in wetland and forest species.

Lastly, you might have observed that this rhyme says "red touches yellow," while an earlier one mentioned "black touches yellow." These rhymes are not entirely reliable for snake identification. It’s safest to avoid the snake altogether, regardless of its colors.

What to Do After a Venomous Snake Encounter

In the event of a venomous snake bite, seek immediate medical assistance. Hospitals often keep antivenom for regional snake species on hand. Prompt administration of antivenom can halt the progression of toxins, resulting in milder symptoms and potentially saving your life.

While awaiting medical help, clean the wound with water and soap if accessible, then cover it with a sterile bandage. Remove any constrictive jewelry to prevent increased blood pressure and rest in a cool, shaded area. These steps can help slow the venom's circulation through your body.