Kingsnake Care Sheet

Origin:

Kingsnakes (Lampropeltis spp.) are native to North and Central America. They inhabit forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands, often near rodent populations or water sources.

Description:

Kingsnakes are medium-sized, non-venomous snakes with striking color patterns that vary by species. Adults typically reach 3–6 feet in length and weigh 1–3 pounds. Lifespan in captivity can reach 15–20 years.

Temperament:

Kingsnakes are generally calm, tolerant of handling, and easy to care for, making them excellent for beginners. They may occasionally hiss or shake their tail when stressed.

Feeding:

• Diet: Appropriately sized rodents (mice or rats), usually pre-killed or frozen/thawed.
• Feeding frequency: Juveniles every 5–7 days; adults every 7–14 days.
• Water: Fresh water provided daily in a shallow dish for drinking and soaking.
• Notes: Kingsnakes may eat other snakes; monitor diet and enclosure carefully.

Housing:

• Enclosure: Glass or PVC terrarium with secure lid.
• Size: Minimum 20–40 gallons for adults; larger preferred for activity.
• Substrate: Aspen shavings, newspaper, or reptile carpet; avoid cedar and pine.
• Temperature: Basking 85–88°F, ambient 75–80°F; nighttime 70–75°F.
• Humidity: 40–60%; provide a moist hide during shedding.
• Hides: At least two hiding spots on warm and cool sides of the enclosure.

Handling:

Handle gently, supporting the snake’s entire body. Kingsnakes are tolerant of handling but may bite if stressed. Regular, calm handling encourages tameness.

Health:

Common health issues include:

• Respiratory infections from poor ventilation or low temperatures
• Parasites (mites or internal worms)
• Shedding problems due to low humidity or inadequate hides
• Obesity from overfeeding or improper prey size

Regular veterinary checkups with a reptile specialist are recommended. Monitor for lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal shedding, or wheezing.

Grooming:

Kingsnakes shed their skin regularly. Provide a moist hide and maintain proper humidity to assist shedding. Clean the enclosure regularly to prevent scale infections.

Fun Facts:

• Kingsnakes are known for preying on other snakes, including venomous species.
• They are excellent climbers and may explore vertical spaces in their enclosure.
• They are constrictors, subduing prey by wrapping their bodies around it rather than using venom.
• Many color morphs exist, making them popular among reptile enthusiasts.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.
1711 Connorvale Rd., Houston, TX 77039
(281) 590-0426
www.sandsexoticanimals.com