Interesting Facts about Broken Arrow Coral Snakes You Might Not Know

The Broken Arrow coral snakes are venomous creatures that are known for their bright colors. They are one of the snakes who have the strongest venom. Nonetheless, they are considered less deadly compared to rattlesnake since the injection of the venom is less-efficient. This creature is separated into two groups; the New World and Old World Coral Snake. The New World contains a very powerful neurotoxin that makes them dangerous.



Appearance of the Coral Snakes

The Oklahoma coral snake has a small and slender body that can extend up to 20 inches in terms of length. There are even species recorded that may extend to 3 feet. Based on the report, the coral snake has a thickness similar to the width of the pencil. They almost appear to be neckless and they have rounded nose. Their tails are similar from their head which makes it difficult to tell them apart.

The Behavior

The Broken Arrow coral snake is taking advantage of its appearance to fool their attackers. They will conceal their head in their coiled body while raising their tails. Since their tail resembles their head, they will fool their predator and they have a higher chance of surviving their attack. When they feel threatened, the coral snake will create a popping sound that is actually a manner of releasing air from the cloaca. This aims to startle the source of the threat. This behavior has also been observed on various snakes’ species but experts are still debating on the original function of this behavior. Some of them think that this is a way to capture the attention of a potential mate.

Habitat

The Oklahoma coral snakes that are found in wooded areas will spend their time burrowed underground. They may also hide on piles of bushes or leaves. They love to stay in the marshy areas but they will also appreciate the sand hills especially for the coral snakes that are found in The Southeast portion of the US. The Western Coral snakes that are living in the Northern Mexico will be mostly found under the rock. They can also occupy the abandoned burrows of other animals. They are reclusive and prefer to keep their habitat hidden from the view. 

Diet

The coral snake will happily eat lizards and small snakes. The subspecies of the coral snake will also enjoy a range of diet in the wild. For instance, the Eastern Coral snake loves the taste of frogs and small amphibians. On the other hand, the Western Coral snakes will devour other snakes.

The Reproduction

Compared to other venomous Oklahoma snake that will deliver a live baby snake, the coral snake will lay its eggs. Based on the report, coral snakes are the only venomous snake found in North America that will do this. They will lay 2-7 eggs that will hatch during the early part of the fall season. The babies will already be equipped with a lethal dose of venom that will help them survive.

The neurotoxin of the Broken Arrow coral snake can cause paralysis that will eventually lead to respiratory failure. This condition may appear a couple of hours on human after being bitten by coral snake. 



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