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Description
California Kingsnake (Blizzard)
Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula californiae
Common Name: California Kingsnake
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 m) in length, with a lean, muscular body and smooth, glossy scales.
Appearance: The Blizzard California Kingsnake is a visually striking morph known for its near-solid white to pale ivory coloration. It displays little to no visible patterning, and the absence of melanin and red pigmentation gives it a ghostly, frosted appearance. Some individuals may exhibit faint yellow or cream tones along the spine or head, particularly as they age. The eyes are typically pink or red, contributing to its clean, albino-derived look. The result is a minimalist, high-contrast morph that stands out sharply against darker or patterned varieties.
Distribution: Originates from selective captive breeding of the California Kingsnake, which occurs naturally across the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Habitat: California Kingsnakes inhabit deserts, scrublands, forests, and grasslands across the southwestern United States. In captivity, this morph thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.
Behaviour: These snakes are inquisitive, active, and resilient. While they may exhibit defensive behaviour as juveniles, they adapt quickly with gentle handling. Adults are calm, intelligent, and responsive to consistent routines.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A 3-foot × 18-inch × 18-inch enclosure suits adults well. Provide multiple hides, climbing opportunities, and a soft, naturalistic substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or aspen to maintain humidity and allow burrowing.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area around 90°F (32°C). Allow nighttime drops to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Maintain humidity between 40–55%, with a humid hide available for shedding.
Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents every 7–10 days for juveniles and every 10–14 days for adults. They are dependable feeders that thrive on a consistent schedule.
Behaviour in Captivity: California Kingsnakes are intelligent, alert, and easy to manage. The Blizzard variety is no exception—adaptable, engaging, and visually captivating in display setups.
Special Considerations: Kingsnakes should always be housed individually, as they may prey on other snakes. The Blizzard morph’s pale coloration can make dirt or substrate stains more visible, so maintain clean enclosure conditions for aesthetic and health reasons.
Genetics Note
Blizzard (Double Recessive – Albino + Axanthic): A combination of two recessive genes that eliminate both red and black pigmentation, producing an all-white to cream snake with pink or red eyes.
Albino (Recessive): Removes black pigmentation, revealing bright yellows, oranges, and whites in single-gene form.
Axanthic (Recessive): Removes yellow pigment, leaving greys and whites. When combined with Albino, both colour groups are removed, producing the pure white Blizzard appearance.
Genetic Combination Summary
The California Kingsnake (Blizzard) expresses two recessive traits:
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Albino (Recessive): Removes black pigment, revealing lighter underlying tones.
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Axanthic (Recessive): Removes yellow pigment, reducing overall colour expression.
Together, these genes result in a clean, solid white snake with faint cream shading and pink eyes. The Blizzard California Kingsnake is highly regarded for its simplicity, elegance, and striking contrast to the naturally banded form. It remains one of the most valued morphs among keepers who appreciate refined, minimalist colouration.