Species Reptiles & AmphibiansScarlet Snake

Scarlet Snake

Cemophora coccinea

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea)

The Scarlet Snake is a nocturnal burrower that mimics the coral snake pattern. Unlike the Scarlet Kingsnake, its red snout distinguishes it. Found under bark and logs, it specializes in eating eggs.

Habitat
Sandy pine forests and hardwood woodland in the Southeast
Diet
Reptile eggs, especially those of skinks and other snakes
How common
Common

Best time to see a Scarlet Snake

The best time to see a Scarlet Snake is March–June, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,490 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Scarlet Snake sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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