California Kingsnake (Coastal Black Stripe)

California Kingsnake (Coastal Black Stripe)

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula californiae
Common Name: California Kingsnake

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Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 m) in length, with a lean, athletic body and smooth, glossy scales.

Appearance: The Coastal Black Stripe California Kingsnake is a striking regional and selectively bred form distinguished by its continuous, jet-black dorsal stripe running from head to tail. The lateral scales are lighter, often displaying white, cream, or light grey tones that fade upward toward the stripe. This creates a clean, high-contrast gradient reminiscent of coastal populations native to southern California. Some individuals exhibit faint lateral striping or broken edges where the dark pigment blends into lighter scales. The result is a sleek, bold appearance that highlights the natural beauty and variation found within this species.

Distribution: Originates from coastal populations of the California Kingsnake, selectively refined in captivity for a continuous, bold black dorsal stripe.

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

Behaviour: California Kingsnakes are highly alert, intelligent, and inquisitive. They are active during the day and adapt quickly to handling once acclimated. Like all kingsnakes, they may bluff defensively as juveniles but calm easily with routine care.

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Captive Care

Enclosure: A 3-foot × 18-inch × 18-inch enclosure is suitable for adults. Provide multiple hides, climbing branches, and visual cover to reduce stress. A natural substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or aspen allows burrowing and maintains moderate humidity.

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

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

Behaviour in Captivity: Active and engaging, these snakes thrive on regular interaction and consistent care routines. They are intelligent, calm adults that make striking display animals.

Special Considerations: Kingsnakes should always be housed individually. The Coastal Black Stripe morph is both a natural locality variant and a selectively refined form, prized for its contrast and simplicity.

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Genetics Note

Coastal (Locality Trait): Represents natural populations from southern coastal California, which tend to display cleaner striping, darker pigmentation, and slightly larger body proportions.

Stripe (Polygenic Selective Trait): Produces a single, bold dorsal stripe running from head to tail. Selective breeding has enhanced the continuity and intensity of this stripe, creating a refined, high-contrast form often associated with coastal-origin lineages.

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Genetic Combination Summary

The California Kingsnake (Coastal Black Stripe) expresses a locality trait and a polygenic pattern trait:

• Coastal (Locality Trait): Darker, cleaner patterning and stronger contrast derived from southern California populations.

• Stripe (Polygenic): Creates a continuous, high-contrast dorsal stripe for a sleek, linear appearance.

This combination results in one of the most visually refined and well-recognized California Kingsnake forms. Highly regarded by both breeders and collectors, the Coastal Black Stripe stands out for its simple yet striking design and its strong ties to natural regional variation.