Home › Volumes › Reptiles › Snakes
Scarlet King Snake — Part 2
From the preceding it will be understood that the Scarlet King Snake and the Scarlet Snake are very similar in pattern. The sharp snout and similar proportions of each intensifies the resemblance. The latter species, however, may be immediately recognised by its immaculate white abdomen. The Scarlet King Snake might be confused with the Coral Snake upon a superficial examination owing to it being ringed with the same colours as the latter. A very simple formula to remember is this, which at once distinguishes each: The black rings of the Coral Snake are broad, and bordered on each side by a very narrow yellow ring. In the pattern of the small King Snake the yellow rings are fairly broad and bordered on each side by slightly narrower rings of black. The heads of the two reptiles are markedly different, that of the venomous snake, broad and rounded; that of the harmless species, sharp and conical.
In captivity this snake evinces a very gentle disposition, seldom offering to bite. However, it invariably burrows into the soil of its cage or hides under loose objects, such as pieces of bark or flat stones. Thus it constitutes a very indifferent object for observation and study. While displaying a very indifferent appetite as a captive, it may be occasionally induced to take very young mice. Although diminutive in make-up, the reptile constricts its prey in exactly the same fashion as its larger and more powerful allies.