California Kingsnake

California kingsnakes are found across much of the western United States. They are highly adaptable when it comes to habitat and are found in woodlands, coniferous forests, grasslands, cultivated fields, tropical scrubs, deserts, and riparian areas. These snakes are not venomous and rely instead on constriction to kill their prey. California kingsnakes are opportunistic feeders, but they primarily eat other snakes, even venomous rattlesnakes! They are not completely immune to rattlesnake venom, but they do have some natural resistance to protect them. California kingsnakes have one of the strongest squeeze strengths proportionate to their size, with twice the strength of a comparably-sized python. Some researchers believe that kingsnakes require this extra power because they hunt snakes, which require less oxygen to survive constriction than mammals do. Kingsnakes typically hunt during the day but have been known to hunt at night to avoid hot summertime temperatures. During the winter, they are able to survive the cold by entering into brumation, which is a hibernation-like state of reduced metabolic activity. 

Due to their relative ease of care and vivid coloration, California kingsnakes are popular pets. While most are bred in captivity, there are unfortunately many kingsnakes that are taken from the wild to support the pet trade. Like all exotic species, it is important to consider the source of any pet before you bring it into your home.

Elvis (M) Hatched: Unknown | Arrived: March 2017

Our resident kingsnake came from a private owner who could no longer care for him. Elvis is usually active and is slowly being socialized by his keepers. Even reptiles need socialization!