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Description
California Kingsnake (Normal)
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, though some large individuals may exceed 5 feet (1.5 m). They have a smooth, glossy body and a slender, athletic build.
Appearance: The Normal, or wild-type, California Kingsnake is one of the most recognizable snakes in North America. It displays alternating black and white (or brown and cream) bands that encircle the body from head to tail. The bands are usually even and sharply defined, though minor variations occur across localities—desert individuals often appear brighter and more contrasted, while coastal forms may show wider, darker bands. The head is typically dark with a pale snout, and the scales have a reflective sheen that enhances the clean, contrasting pattern.
Distribution: Native to the western United States and northern Mexico, found throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Baja California.
Habitat: California Kingsnakes inhabit deserts, scrublands, grasslands, and forest edges across the southwestern United States. In captivity, this species thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.
Behaviour: This species is active, alert, and intelligent. It is diurnal in mild temperatures and crepuscular in hotter conditions. California Kingsnakes are confident feeders, adaptable to handling, and among the hardiest colubrids in the hobby.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A 3-foot × 18-inch × 18-inch enclosure is suitable for adults. Provide multiple hides, climbing branches, and a secure lid. A natural substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or aspen allows burrowing and supports humidity control.
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). Maintain humidity between 40–55%, offering a humid hide for shedding.
Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents every 7–10 days for juveniles and every 10–14 days for adults. Kingsnakes are enthusiastic, consistent feeders that thrive on a simple rodent diet.
Behaviour in Captivity: Calm, hardy, and interactive, California Kingsnakes make excellent display and educational animals. They quickly adapt to routine care and handling.
Special Considerations: Kingsnakes should always be housed individually, as they may prey on other snakes, including their own species.
Genetics Note
The Normal California Kingsnake represents the natural wild-type appearance of the species and serves as the foundation for dozens of established morphs. Through selective breeding, keepers have produced a wide range of genetic and polygenic variations, including Albino, Hypomelanistic, High White, Lavender, Chocolate, Axanthic, Blizzard, and numerous Striped and Aberrant forms. Each descends from the species’ naturally high contrast and clean patterning, which make the California Kingsnake one of the most genetically diverse and well-recognized colubrids in herpetoculture.
Species Summary
The California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae) is a hardy, intelligent, and visually iconic North American colubrid. Known for its bold banding and adaptable nature, it remains a favourite among both beginners and experienced keepers. The Normal form continues to represent the pure, timeless beauty of the species and the genetic foundation from which nearly all modern morphs have developed.