Eastern Kingsnake
Lampropeltis getula • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Lampropeltis, Species: L. getula
Found throughout the eastern United States, ranging from southern New Jersey down to the tip of Florida, and west to the Appalachians and parts of the Gulf Coast.
Look up Eastern Kingsnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Lampropeltis, Species: L. getula
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN), though populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.
Physical Description
Shiny black body with a striking pattern of white or cream-colored horizontal bands (chain-like) that cross the back and connect on the sides. Head is slightly wider than the neck, snout is rounded, scales are smooth, and pupils are round.
Size & Dimensions
Typical adult length ranges from 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm), with specimens rarely reaching 6 feet. This specimen appears to be an average-sized adult.
Habitat
Inhabits a wide variety of environments including deciduous forests, pine woodlands, swamps, tidal marshes, and agricultural areas. Often found near water sources at elevations from sea level to 3,000 feet.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that hunt by scent. They are powerful constrictors that eat rodents, birds, lizards, and significantly, other snakes including rattlesnakes and copperheads.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying). Females lay clutches of 3 to 24 eggs in late spring or early summer, usually in rotting logs or leaf litter. Hatchlings emerge in late summer.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN), though populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.
Cultural Significance
Highly valued by homeowners and farmers for their role as natural pest control and for keeping other snake populations in check.
Notable Features
Preys on North American pit vipers (rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths).