Animal Profiles
Reptiles

King Snake

Lampropeltis

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Kingsnakes are nonvenomous constrictors. This account describes the eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula), retaining the species name while distinguishing it from the broader kingsnake complex used in older accounts.

Lampropeltis getula (king snake)

Representative species: Lampropeltis getula.

MH Herpetology · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Habitat
Temperate forest, Grassland, Wetlands
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Small vertebrates and eggs.

Classification

Common name
King Snake
Browse group
Reptiles
Scientific name or taxon
Lampropeltis
Source classification
Reptilia

Three things to know

  • It subdues prey by constriction.
  • Other snakes can form part of its diet.
  • Typical eastern animals have pale chain-like markings.

Habitat and range

Eastern kingsnakes occupy the southeastern United States in a variety of wooded, open and wetland habitats. The cited older account includes western forms now often treated separately, so those ranges are not applied here.

Appearance and adaptations

A glossy dark body carries pale chain-like markings in typical eastern animals. Smooth scales and a relatively streamlined head create a polished appearance.

Diet and behaviour

Rodents, birds, eggs, lizards and other snakes may be eaten. Prey is subdued by constriction. Secretive habits and use of logs, vegetation and other cover often keep the snake hidden.

Sources

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