California Kingsnake
Also known as: Cali King, Lampropeltis californiae
A hardy, striking snake that's easy to keep but must live alone.
- Active
- Curious
- Hardy
- Bold
- Solitary
The California kingsnake is a hardy, medium-sized snake with bold banded or striped patterns. Kingsnakes are active, curious and reliable feeders, making them good beginner snakes. However, they eat other snakes and must always be housed alone.
At a glance
- Origin
- Western United States / Mexico
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 1–2 lb (0.5–0.9 kg)
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Coat
- Smooth scales
- Colours
- Black and white, Brown and yellow, Banded or striped morphs
- Average cost
- $30–$60 / month
Breed ratings
Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.
Temperament
Kingsnakes are active and usually calm once settled.
Care & upkeep
Exercise
A secure enclosure with hides and climbing branches.
Grooming
No grooming needed; maintain humidity for clean sheds.
Training
Not trainable; regular calm handling builds tolerance.
Feeding & diet
- Typical diet
- Whole prey
- Daily amount
- Frozen-thawed mice every 7–10 days
- Meals per day
- Every 7–10 days
Kingsnakes have big appetites — feed appropriately sized prey on schedule.
Foods to avoid
- Live prey left unattended
- Oversized prey
- Handling within 48 hours of feeding
- Housing with other snakes
Who this breed suits
A good match for
- First-time snake keepers
- Apartments
- Owners wanting an active snake
Probably not for
- People uncomfortable feeding rodents
- Multi-snake setups in one enclosure
Common health problems
This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.
- Respiratory infectionsCaused by incorrect temperature or humidity.
- MitesQuarantine new animals.
- Scale rotCaused by wet substrate.
- ObesityAvoid overfeeding.
Weigh monthly to track health.
Interesting facts
- Kingsnakes eat other snakes, including rattlesnakes.
- They are immune to some snake venoms.
- Patterns vary widely, even within a litter.
Diet & Feeding
Feed frozen-thawed mice about the width of the snake's body every 7–10 days for adults. Kingsnakes have strong appetites — avoid overfeeding.
Temperature & Lighting
Provide a warm side of 29–32°C and a cool side of 22–25°C. Use a thermostat-controlled heat mat or panel. Low-level UVB is optional but recommended.
Enclosure & Setup
An adult needs at least 120 x 60 x 60 cm. Provide hides on both sides, a water bowl and secure lids — kingsnakes are skilled escape artists.
Health & Vet Care
Watch for respiratory infections, mites, scale rot and obesity. Quarantine new animals and weigh monthly.
Living with a California Kingsnake
Kingsnakes are active and usually tolerate handling, but may musk or nip when young. Always house alone — they will eat other snakes.