Kingsnakes a.k.a Lampropeltis sp. (Cali Kings, MBK’s, Fl Kings, etc.)
Intro to Kingsnakes
Kingsnakes are one of the most popular pet snakes because they come in a variety of localities and morphs which feature color and pattern mutations. These Snakes are found throughout the majority of the Americas in many climates. Kingsnakes are extremely manageable for keepers of all experience levels as they max out at 48-72 inches depending on sex.
Kingsnake Care
Keeping Kingsnakes is fairly easy. You’ll need a basking spot of 85-90°F, ambient temperature os 75-80°F, and 40-60% humidity. This can be easily achieved with an Under Tank Heater or Basking Lamp, a proper Water Bowl, and substrate (Aspen or Coco). Add a hide and decorate their enclosure as you please, decorations like foliage help with enrichment.
Breeders commonly keep their Kingsnakes in Rack Systems. Where they start off in “Pencil Bins” or 6 qt tubs, then graduating to 32 qt tubs. As pets, however, Kings can do well in tanks or pvc enclosures. Baby Kingsnakes can start in a 10 gallon tank. Adults can live in a 40 gallon tank to a 4×2 enclosure.
Kingsnakes For Sale in the Pet Trade
Kingsnakes are bred readily in captivity as they are extremely prolific and can double clutch during their breeding season. You can find these common snakes at almost any reptile show or reptile shop for sale. To breed these, it helps for them to go through a brumation cycle of about 2-3 months at ~60 degrees°F. After brumation, it is important to get your animal back on food. Once these animals are re-established, you may begin pairing!