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 →Venomous Status
Non-venomous - lacks fangs and venom delivery apparatus (Aglyphous)
Danger Level
Harmless. Though they may bite if handled aggressively, they pose no threat to life and effectively lack toxins.
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.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily diurnal but becomes more crepuscular or nocturnal during hot summer months. Known for being docile but can vibrate its tail in dry leaves to mimic a rattlesnake or release musk when threatened.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that hunt by scent. They are powerful constrictors that eat rodents, birds, lizards, and significantly, other snakes including venomous species like 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.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
Look-alikes
Often confused with the Black Racer (Coluber constrictor), which lacks the crossbands, or juvenile Rat Snakes, which have a more blotchy rather than chain-link pattern.
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 their ability to keep venomous snake populations in check.
Notable Features
Possesses a remarkable natural immunity to the venom of North American pit vipers (rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths), allowing them to safely prey upon these dangerous snakes.