Western
New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.org
© 2001
- 2002 by Western New York Herpetological Society
This
document is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of
information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommended that a
concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of
interest.
Common
Name:
Kingsnakes
Latin
Name:
Lampropeltis spp.
Native
to:
North
America (excluding Canada)
Size:
3-4
feet average up to 6 feet
Life
Span:
10-l5
years
General
Appearance:
Head
is small and not distinct from the body. They are smooth scaled with a variety
of colors and patterns. Kingsnakes are constrictors and are usually active at
dawn and dusk.
Housing
Requirements:
Enclosure:
Glass
aquariums are good to use and are easy to clean. Plastic shoeboxes can also be used.
Hatchlings can be housed in 10-gallon enclosures. Adults should be housed in
20-gallon enclosures or larger depending on size of the snake. A secure lid is
essential or the snake will escape. Kingsnakes must be housed alone because
they will eat other snakes.
Temperature:
75-85
F.
Heat/Light:
Heating
pads placed under one half of the enclosure are the best way to provide heat. This
will give the snake a range of temperature to move within. Aquarium glass can
draw heat away from the animal. Be sure to place a thermometer inside to
measure correct temperature. Additional UV lighting is not needed for snakes.
An incandescent basking light can be used during the day.
Substrates:
Newspaper
is inexpensive and easily changed when soiled. Other Choices are aspen shavings,
outdoor carpeting or aquarium gravel which are more attractive to look at. A shelter
or hide box is needed so the snake has a dark area to rest and feel secure. A
rock or branch should be included to give an abrasive spot for the snake to rub
upon to help with shedding.
Environment:
In
periods of low humidity a weekly misting is needed.
Diet:
Hatchlings
can be started off feeding on pinkie mice. Juveniles and adults can gradually take
larger prey of fuzzy mice, adult mice or young rats. Young snakes can be fed
1-2 times a week. Thawed frozen rodents are the easiest and safest way to feed
snakes. A supply can be kept in your freezer and there are no problems from
live mice biting your snake. Water should be provided in a bowl. The snake will
drink from it and may soak itself before it sheds.
Maintenance:
Cleanliness
of the enclosure is essential. Waste products should be moved daily. Bowls must
be clean with fresh water. Handlers are advised to wash their hands after holding
any animals or animal related products.
Other
References or Recommended Readings
The
General Care and Maintenance of Common Kingnakes ~ David Perlowin