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REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS California Kingsnake
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The California Kingsnake also known as the Lampropeltis getula californiae is a subspecies of the Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). They are non-venomous snake native to Western North America. The snake has dark black or brown and creamy or white markings. Individual snakes vary in color and pattern. California King Snakes grow to a length of up to 5 feet and weigh as much as 4 pounds. California Kingsnakes prey on lizards, birds, and other snakes. Interestingly, while shedding, the snake will refuse to eat because of greatly reduced vision due to the build-up of oil underneath the eye coverings. Kingsnakes get their name from their ability to eat other snakes. They are capable of eating any type of snake which is just slightly smaller than itself. They are even able to eat venomous snakes like the rattlesnake. California Kingsnake can be "domesticated" so that it will eat raw meat and chicken. |
