There are many different species of snakes in the continental US. Many are poisonous but most are non venomous. A snake that is black with yellow bands around the body is most likely a common king snake and a non venomous specimen. These snakes are thought to bring luck if found in your neighborhood because they attack venomous snakes to protect themselves making it less likely you will run into a venomous snake in the area. The king snake is also a common aquarium pet for curious children who are exploring nature.
By asking the question, it shows that you are interested in educating yourself and this is always a good sign for parents and educators. Curiosity and exploration of the things that surround us are part of what forms our thoughts opinions and beliefs. Knowing the creatures that live and thrive in your geographic area is very important and could save you from potentially deadly consequences.
In most south-eastern states, the western diamond back rattle snake is the biggest threat and most commonly sighted or heard snake. These are poisonous and can be deadly if bites are left untreated or your body’s reaction is stronger than the average reaction. If you happen to be in an area where there is dense vegetation and you hear a rattle of a rattle snake, stop, don’t move, survey the area and locate the snake. If he got quiet as you stopped, he is likely right in front of you.
Coral and certain other snakes with like coloring have inspired rhymes to aide in memorizing keys to telling the venomous snakes from the non venomous ones. The order of the bands distinguishes between the non-venomous mimics and the venomous coral snakes, making the rhymes "Red on yellow, kill a fellow; "Red on black, friend of Jack”; and "Red into black, venom lack; red into yellow, kill a fellow.” These, however only reliably apply to coral snakes native to North America.
By asking the question, it shows that you are interested in educating yourself and this is always a good sign for parents and educators. Curiosity and exploration of the things that surround us are part of what forms our thoughts opinions and beliefs. Knowing the creatures that live and thrive in your geographic area is very important and could save you from potentially deadly consequences.
In most south-eastern states, the western diamond back rattle snake is the biggest threat and most commonly sighted or heard snake. These are poisonous and can be deadly if bites are left untreated or your body’s reaction is stronger than the average reaction. If you happen to be in an area where there is dense vegetation and you hear a rattle of a rattle snake, stop, don’t move, survey the area and locate the snake. If he got quiet as you stopped, he is likely right in front of you.
Coral and certain other snakes with like coloring have inspired rhymes to aide in memorizing keys to telling the venomous snakes from the non venomous ones. The order of the bands distinguishes between the non-venomous mimics and the venomous coral snakes, making the rhymes "Red on yellow, kill a fellow; "Red on black, friend of Jack”; and "Red into black, venom lack; red into yellow, kill a fellow.” These, however only reliably apply to coral snakes native to North America.
