Coral snakes are small, venomous snakes found primarily in the Americas. They are known for their distinctive coloration, featuring bright red, yellow, and black bands. These snakes are often confused with non-venomous king snakes, which have similar patterns but differ in color order. Coral snakes typically inhabit forests, grasslands, and coastal areas. They are secretive and spend much of their time underground or hidden in leaf litter. Their venom is potent, but bites are rare due to their shy nature and small mouths, making them less likely to bite humans compared to other snakes.