The phrase ‘Red and Yellow, Kill a Fellow’ is a well-known rhyme used to identify venomous snakes, particularly the coral snake. It is a safety reminder that helps people distinguish between the dangerous coral snake and harmless lookalike species such as the milk snake and king snake.
Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, but some can be deadly if not identified correctly. Understanding this phrase can help you stay safe in areas where these snakes are found. In this topic, we will explore what the phrase means, how to identify dangerous snakes, and why this rhyme is useful for survival.
1. The Meaning Behind ‘Red and Yellow, Kill a Fellow’
This rhyme is a mnemonic device that helps people remember the difference between a venomous coral snake and its non-venomous mimics.
1.1. The Full Rhyme
The full version of the rhyme goes:
‘Red and yellow, kill a fellow. Red and black, friend of Jack.’
This means:
-
If a snake has red and yellow bands touching, it is venomous (coral snake).
-
If a snake has red and black bands touching, it is harmless (king snake, milk snake).
1.2. Why This Rhyme Exists
Many harmless snakes mimic the appearance of the coral snake to scare predators. However, knowing this rhyme can help people avoid dangerous mistakes when encountering snakes in the wild.
2. Identifying the Coral Snake
The coral snake is the main reason why this phrase exists. It is a highly venomous snake found in parts of North America, Central America, and South America.
2.1. Physical Characteristics
-
Brightly colored with red, yellow, and black bands.
-
Red and yellow bands touch each other.
-
Small rounded head and short fangs.
-
Smooth, shiny scales.
2.2. Behavior and Habitat
-
Coral snakes are reclusive and prefer hiding under leaves, logs, or burrowing in the ground.
-
They are mostly found in forests, swamps, and sandy areas.
-
Unlike pit vipers, coral snakes do not strike aggressively; they bite and hold on to inject venom.
2.3. Venom and Danger
-
Coral snake venom is neurotoxic, meaning it affects the nervous system.
-
A bite can lead to respiratory failure, paralysis, and even death if untreated.
-
Symptoms of a bite include slurred speech, blurred vision, muscle weakness, and difficulty breathing.
Because coral snakes are shy and rarely bite humans, fatalities are rare. However, it is still crucial to be able to identify and avoid them.
3. Non-Venomous Lookalikes: The Safe Snakes
Several harmless snakes look similar to coral snakes. The key difference is their color pattern.
3.1. King Snakes
-
Found in North America.
-
Red and black bands touch (not red and yellow).
-
Constrictors that eat rodents and other snakes.
-
Completely harmless to humans.
3.2. Milk Snakes
-
Found in North and Central America.
-
Similar banding pattern, but red and black bands touch.
-
Often found in farmlands and forests.
-
Non-venomous and helpful for controlling rodent populations.
3.3. Scarlet Snake
-
Found in southeastern United States.
-
Smaller than coral snakes and have pointed snouts.
-
Unlike coral snakes, their red bands do not touch yellow bands.
-
Harmless and often mistaken for a coral snake.
Knowing these differences can prevent unnecessary fear and protect these beneficial snakes from being harmed.
4. Where Are Coral Snakes Found?
Coral snakes are mainly found in warm and humid regions. Their habitat includes:
-
United States – Southern states like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and Louisiana.
-
Mexico and Central America – Forested areas and tropical climates.
-
South America – Countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina.
They are mostly active during warm months and are rarely seen because they prefer hiding under debris or underground.
5. What to Do If You Encounter a Coral Snake
If you come across a snake that matches the ‘Red and Yellow, Kill a Fellow’ pattern, follow these safety steps:
5.1. Keep Your Distance
-
Never try to touch, catch, or kill the snake.
-
Stay at least a few feet away.
-
Slowly back away to avoid provoking the snake.
5.2. Observe the Color Pattern
-
Check if the red and yellow bands are touching.
-
If they are, it is likely a coral snake, and you should stay away.
5.3. Avoid Sudden Movements
-
Quick movements can startle the snake.
-
Stay calm and allow the snake to move away on its own.
5.4. If You Get Bitten
-
Seek medical help immediately – Coral snake venom can be fatal.
-
Try to remain still to slow the spread of venom.
-
Do not try to suck out the venom or cut the wound.
-
Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
Although coral snake bites are rare, they require urgent medical attention.
6. Why This Rhyme Is Important
The phrase ‘Red and Yellow, Kill a Fellow’ is a lifesaving tool for people who spend time in forests, hiking trails, or rural areas where coral snakes exist.
6.1. Helps Prevent Snake Bites
By remembering this simple rhyme, people can quickly identify and avoid a venomous coral snake.
6.2. Protects Harmless Snakes
Many harmless snakes, like king snakes and milk snakes, are often killed because they look like coral snakes. This rhyme helps people recognize the difference and avoid harming non-venomous species.
6.3. Easy to Teach and Remember
-
The rhyme is simple enough for children to learn.
-
It is used in schools, survival training, and outdoor education.
-
Knowing this phrase can save lives in areas where coral snakes are found.
7. Stay Safe by Knowing the Colors
Understanding the meaning of ‘Red and Yellow, Kill a Fellow’ is crucial for snake safety and identification.
-
Coral snakes are venomous and can be identified by red and yellow bands touching.
-
King snakes and milk snakes are harmless and have red and black bands touching.
-
The rhyme helps prevent unnecessary fear and protects both humans and snakes.
By learning to identify dangerous snakes, you can stay safe outdoors while respecting and appreciating wildlife. Whether hiking, camping, or simply exploring nature, remembering this rhyme could save your life.