Mexican Black Kingsnake
Lampropeltis getula nigrita
A striking, almost entirely jet-black kingsnake from northwestern Mexico, notable for its uniform glossy appearance.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- Northwestern Mexico and adjacent southwestern United States
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Overview
The Mexican Black Kingsnake is a form of common kingsnake native to the Mexican state of Sonora and adjacent parts of the southwestern United States. It is closely related to the California kingsnake and other members of the kingsnake complex.
This form is notable for its almost entirely melanistic appearance, with adults appearing nearly solid glossy black with little to no visible pattern.
How to identify it
- Nearly solid glossy black body with little to no visible banding in adults
- Smooth, highly glossy scales
- Head only slightly distinct from the neck with round pupils
- Stocky, muscular kingsnake build, often reaching a larger size than related forms
- Distinguished from other black-appearing kingsnakes by its very high degree of melanism and Sonoran Desert range
Habitat & range
Found in desert scrub, thornscrub, and rocky arid habitats of Sonora, Mexico, and adjacent border regions of the southwestern United States.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, especially in hot desert conditions. It is a powerful constrictor with a broad diet of rodents, birds, lizards, and other snakes, including rattlesnakes. It is oviparous, laying eggs during warmer months.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mexican Black Kingsnake venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.
Why is the Mexican Black Kingsnake so dark?
It exhibits a high degree of melanism, resulting in an almost entirely solid black appearance in adults.
Where is the Mexican Black Kingsnake found?
In Sonora, Mexico, and adjacent parts of the southwestern United States.
Does the Mexican Black Kingsnake eat rattlesnakes?
Yes, like other kingsnakes it preys on rattlesnakes and other venomous species.
Mexican Black Kingsnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Mexican Black Kingsnake.
