Common Name: Kingsnakes
Scientific Name: Lampropeltis sp.
Size: Adults average three to four feet in length
Their range extends across the continental United States and northern Mexico. Kingsnakes are
robust constrictors known for their immunity to venomous snakes that inhabit their range. These
snakes rarely attempt to bite, although they may do so if restrained. Handle gently, without
pinching or squeezing, allowing the snake to move through your fingers.
Captive Environment: Depending on their size adults can be housed in 10 - 30 gallon tanks. A
secure lid is a must; screen tops fastened with clamps work well. Remember, kingsnakes are
slender and can slide through small cracks in the top of the tank. These reptiles are secretive
by nature; therefore, a hide box is recommended for their well being. Suitable substrates for
your snake's home include reptile carpet, reptile bark or shredded coconut husks.
Lighting: UVB emitting full spectrum lighting is optional for snakes. However it may prove to be
beneficial to the long term care of your pet reptile. The light should be positioned less than
18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation,
therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting
cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the
proper amount of light is received.
Temperature: 75-85 degrees F. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature
range for your reptile. You can use an incandescent light bulb with reflectors to heat the
aquarium during the day and an under tank heat mat to help regulate the temperature 24 hours a
day. Never place lights inside the enclosure where your reptile could come in contact with them
and get burned. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating
element to maintain day / night light cycle. Always use a thermometer to ensure proper
temperature range is maintained.
Water: Provide clean water in a small dish. Humidity should be kept low, or respiratory problems
can result. Due to the variance in cages and home environments, some snakes may experience
shedding problems, particularly the tail tip. If this is noticed, provide a small plastic
container with lid (cut an access hole in the side) filled with damp sphagnum moss. This will
allow the animal to shed properly.
Food: Adults should be fed no more than once weekly with one to three mice at each feeding
depending on the size of the snake and mice. Most kingsnakes readily eat thawed mice; offering a
freshly killed mouse monthly may be done to make certain that the snake is receiving all its
vitamins.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
