Kingsnake

1 Overview

‘Kingsnake’ refers to snakes of the genus Lampropeltis, best known for their immunity to many venoms and their habit of eating other snakes. The common kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) is the classic representative.

SOURCE NOTE: the source spelled the name ‘Lampropeltis pyomelana’ (a typo for L. pyromelana, the Arizona mountain kingsnake); ‘kingsnake’ as a group is Lampropeltis.

2 Appearance

Kingsnakes are glossy and banded or speckled in black with white/yellow, depending on the species and locality. Most stay 90-150 cm.

3 Care & Temperament

Among the most straightforward pet snakes: a secure terrestrial terrarium with a temperature gradient and hides. They are generally bold and feed reliably.

Mouth rot follows poor hygiene or stress; keep clean and warm.

4 Habitat & Environment

Mimic dry to semi-arid or temperate habitat per species: a substrate for burrowing, a basking spot, and a water bowl.

5 Diet & Feeding

Feed appropriately sized rodents every 1-2 weeks. Hatchlings may need scenting. Never house two snakes together unsupervised – kingsnakes are cannibalistic.