California Kingsnake (Baja Het Hyper Lavender)

California Kingsnake (Baja het. Hyper Lavender)

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 smooth, muscular body and glossy scales.

Appearance: The Baja het. Hyper Lavender California Kingsnake represents a selectively bred line derived from Baja locality stock, known for its rich brown-and-cream tones and bold contrast. Visually, this morph retains the classic banded pattern of the Baja variant—broad, chocolate-to-black bands alternating with creamy white or pale yellow. While the Hyper Lavender gene is not visually expressed in its heterozygous form, it is carried genetically, offering the potential to produce soft purple and silver-toned offspring when bred to compatible partners. The Baja influence gives the snake a slightly darker, earthier hue compared to standard California lines.

Distribution: Originates from captive breeding of California Kingsnakes collected from the Baja California region of Mexico.

Habitat: California Kingsnakes inhabit deserts, arid scrublands, and rocky areas across the southwestern United States and Baja California, Mexico. In captivity, this morph thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.

Behaviour: These kingsnakes are highly alert, curious, and confident. They are active during the day, exploring both ground and climbing surfaces, and quickly learn to tolerate handling with consistent interaction.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A 3-foot × 18-inch × 18-inch enclosure is suitable for adults. Provide multiple hides, smooth décor, and visual cover for security. A soft, loose substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or aspen allows burrowing and supports proper humidity.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area near 90°F (32°C). Allow nighttime drops to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity between 40–55%, providing a humid hide for shedding.

Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents every 7–10 days for juveniles and every 10–14 days for adults. They are dependable feeders with strong appetites.

Behaviour in Captivity: California Kingsnakes are intelligent and engaging. This morph remains active and alert, often exploring its surroundings and responding well to a structured feeding routine.

Special Considerations: Always house kingsnakes individually to prevent cannibalism. The Baja het. Hyper Lavender morph is valued for both its rich locality coloration and genetic potential in breeding projects.

Genetics Note

Baja (Locality Trait): Represents the distinct colour and pattern characteristics of the Baja California population, known for darker brown banding and high-contrast cream or yellow interspaces.

het. Hyper Lavender (Recessive Carrier): Carries one copy of the Hyper Lavender gene, which softens dark pigments into muted lilac or silver tones when expressed visually. (“het” is short for heterozygous, meaning one copy is carried but not expressed.)

Genetic Combination Summary

The California Kingsnake (Baja het. Hyper Lavender) expresses a locality trait and carries one recessive gene:

• Baja (Locality Trait): Dark, high-contrast brown and cream coloration typical of Baja lineage.

• het. Hyper Lavender (Recessive Carrier): Holds one copy of the Hyper Lavender gene, which can produce lavender and silver offspring when paired with another carrier or visual.

This morph combines the bold look of the Baja Kingsnake with hidden genetic potential for unique lavender colour projects. Highly regarded by breeders, it represents a strong foundation for expanding future lavender-based California Kingsnake lines.