Kingsnake - California

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

California King Snake Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula californiae

Basic Info

California Kingsnakes will not grow into large snakes. Normally, at maturity, they will measure three to four feet, five feet at a maximum. They are very attractive snakes that come in several color morphs; and the variety of patterns coupled with their affordability makes them an excellent choice for a pet. They have a distinctive defense mechanism that they use in the wild that is very interesting to observe. When frightened, they will mimic a rattlesnake by vibrating their tail against the ground to make a "rattling" noise. They quite effectively dupe most would-be predators. It is also interesting to note that the California Kingsnake has been known to feed on rattlesnakes. They may live as long as 15 years in captivity. Females usually live a few years less than males.

Health

Caring for the California Kingsnake in captivity is much like caring for the Corn Snake. Adults can be housed in a 20-gallon-long terrarium with a secured screen top. There should be a "cool" end and a "warm" end in the aquarium. Keep the cool end's temperature around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the warm end temperature between 82 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide a dish of clean water at the cool end for them as well. California Kingsnakes have ravenous appetites. In the wild, they will eat lizards, mice, rats, and even other snakes. For this reason, these snakes should not be housed together because if they are hungry they may resort to cannibalism. Kingsnakes may not feed in the winter because of hibernation, but not every one will hibernate. Breeding California Kingsnakes will usually reach sexual maturity between two and three years of age. They will normally breed in the spring or summer after they have brumated through the winter at about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Before breeding, the snakes should be large and healthy. Females will lay one or two clutches per year, usually of six to fifteen eggs each. Some clutches of over 20 eggs have been recorded, but this is rare. Incubate the eggs at 80 - 85 Fahrenheit for 60 - 80 days.

Habitat

Found in the deserts, farmlands, and forests of California, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona

Behavior

California Kingsnakes are good snakes for beginning collectors, their care, handling, and housing requirements are much like that of the Corn Snake. They come in a variety of beautiful colors. They are commonly bred in captivity and they are accepting of handling and many are even well mannered enough for children. They are diurnal snakes of average size. California Kingsnakes are relatively easy to care for. They make excellent beginner's snakes because they are so hardy. They are calm and very beautiful constrictors with an even temperament and a forgiving, flexible nature.

Origin

North America

History

In the wild, they are commonly found in the deserts, farmlands, and forests of California, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.

Common Foods

feeds on lizards, birds, snakes, eggs, frogs, lizards and small mammals