Nature Field Guide
Central American Coral Snake
- Spanish name
- Coral macho
- Scientific name
- Micrurus nigrocinctus
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico and Tati invite you to learn about the central american coral snake. Create a ring-pattern drawing from a verified photograph. Write the rule: observe snakes from a distance and tell an adult.
Species overview
About the Central American Coral Snake
A venomous coral snake with complete colored rings. Similar-looking snakes occur in Costa Rica, so children should never use a color rhyme or this card to decide whether a snake can be touched.
Identification
Key Features of the Central American Coral Snake
Red, pale and black rings encircling the body.
Relatively small head with little separation from the neck.
A slender-to-moderately robust cylindrical body.
Habitat & range
Pacific-slope lowlands and premontane areas, including parts of the Central Valley.
Local observations
Recorded in Costa Rica. This profile describes suitable habitat, not a confirmed Tamarindo sighting or a guaranteed viewing location.
When to observe
Often hidden; use verified images instead of searching under objects.
Conservation & care
Never approach, touch, catch or try to move any snake, even if it appears harmless or dead. Keep children and pets away, step back calmly and tell an adult or guide. Do not use colors, head shape or this card to judge safety.
Observation activity
Create a ring-pattern drawing from a verified photograph. Write the rule: observe snakes from a distance and tell an adult.
Explore by location
Central Pacific · Central Valley · Guanacaste · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific · Heredia · San José