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Named King for preying on other snakes. California Kingsnake is the most common. Hardy and easy to keep.
Kingsnakes are colubrid New World members of the genus Lampropeltis, which includes 26 species. Among these, about 45 subspecies are recognized. They are nonvenomous and ophiophagous in diet.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Kingsnake lives 15-20 years.
The Kingsnake grows to 90-150cm.
The ideal temperature for the Kingsnake is 24〜30℃. Ideal humidity is 40〜60%.
Origin
North America and Central America
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
90-150cm
Temperature
24〜30℃
Humidity
40〜60%
King snakes (particularly California kingsnake, Lampropeltis californiae) combine recessive single-gene morphs such as Albino, Lavender, Hypo, and Ghost with pattern types like Stripe (dominant). Banana and High White are artificial lines produced through selective breeding.
Sources: Reptiles Magazine - California Kingsnake Care, Breeding and Morphs
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: (Linnaeus, 1766)
Synonyms: Coluber getulus Linnaeus, 1766, Lampropeltis floridana Blanchard, 1919, Lampropeltis getulus brooksi Barbour, 1919, Lampropeltis getulus goini Neill & Allen, 1949, Lampropeltis meansi Krysko & Judd, 2006, Lamprpeltis getulus (Linnaeus, 1766)
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Checklist (not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Frozen mice
24-30°C (hot spot 32°C)
Aim for 40-60% humidity. Keep a water bowl available at all times and raise humidity slightly before shedding for a clean shed.
60cm+. Simple layout is fine
Weekly, appropriately sized mouse
Because it eats other snakes, always house it alone. It is also an escape artist, so close lids and locks securely.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Kingsnake is 24〜30℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Kingsnake is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Kingsnake typically reaches 90-150cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Kingsnake feeds on: Frozen mice. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Kingsnake varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.