Speckled Kingsnake

The Speckled Kingsnake is a distinctive, non-venomous colubrid found across the south-central United States, from Iowa and Nebraska south to Texas and the Gulf Coast. It is closely related to other kingsnakes and shares their reputation as snake-eating predators.

Its finely speckled pattern, with nearly every dark scale bearing a small yellow spot, makes it one of the more visually distinctive kingsnakes in North America.

• Glossy black to dark brown body with small yellow or white spots centered on nearly every scale
• Smooth scales giving a shiny, speckled 'salt-and-pepper' appearance
• Head only slightly distinct from neck with round pupils
• Stocky, muscular kingsnake build
• Distinguished from other kingsnakes by its dense, fine speckled pattern rather than banding or blotches

Found in a variety of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, farmland, and river bottoms across the south-central United States, often near water and under debris or rocks.

Primarily diurnal to crepuscular, becoming more nocturnal in hot summer months. It is a powerful constrictor that preys on rodents, other snakes (including venomous species), lizards, and eggs. It is oviparous, laying eggs in summer.