How to Care for a California Kingsnake

by | Jan 13, 2025

California kingsnakes (Lampropeltis getula californiae) are a hardy and rewarding species for reptile enthusiasts. Known for their striking patterns and docile nature, they make excellent pets for intermediate keepers. Here’s a comprehensive care guide to help you provide the best environment for your California kingsnake.

Basic Information
  • Common Name: California Kingsnake

  • Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula californiae

  • Lifespan: 20-30 years in captivity with proper care

  • Size: 3-5 feet in length as adults

  • Temperament: Generally docile but may be defensive when young

Fun Facts
  • Name Origin: They’re called “kingsnakes” because they’re known to eat other snakes, including venomous ones like rattlesnakes!

  • Immune to Venom: California kingsnakes have a natural resistance to venom, allowing them to hunt and consume venomous prey.

  • Color Variations: These snakes come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, including striped, banded, and albino morphs.

  • Escape Artists: Kingsnakes are notorious for their ability to find and squeeze through the smallest gaps, so a secure enclosure is a must.

  • Wide Range: They’re native to the western United States and Mexico, thriving in diverse habitats from deserts to forests.

Black and white striped kingsnake
Enclosure
  • Tank Size: A 120-gallon terrarium is ideal for an adult California kingsnake. The ample space allows for natural behaviors and enrichment opportunities.

  • Material: Front-opening glass or PVC enclosures with minimized gaps to prevent escapes are the best choice.

Substrate
  • Options: A soil-clay-sand mixture is ideal, as it mimics their natural habitat and supports burrowing behavior.

  • Depth: At least 6 inches to allow for sufficient burrowing opportunities.

  • Spot Cleaning: Remove waste promptly and change substrate entirely every 4-6 weeks.

Enrichment
  • Hides: Provide at least three hides: one on the warm side, one on the cool side, and a humid hide to support shedding and hydration.

  • Climbing Structures: Include branches, cork bark, and sturdy decor.

  • Enrichment Items: Fake plants, tunnels, and textured surfaces.

Lighting and Heating

Temperature

  • Warm Side: 85°F (29°C)

  • Cool Side: 75°F (24°C)

  • Nighttime: 70°F (21°C)

  • Monitoring: Use digital thermometers for accuracy.

UVB Lighting

  • While not strictly required, UVB lighting is beneficial for overall health, especially for calcium metabolism and immune function.

  • Use a 5-7% UVB bulb with a 12-hour day/night cycle.

Fluker 100 w DHP

Feeding Schedule

Babies: Feed every 5-7 days.

Juveniles: Feed every 10-14 days.

Adults: Feed once a month.

Prey

Type: Offer appropriately sized prey such as mice or rats.

Feeding Behavior: Offer multiple prey items at one feeding to mimic wild hunting habits.

Thawing: If using frozen-thawed prey, ensure it is fully thawed and warmed before feeding.

Water

Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking. Change water daily to prevent contamination.

Handling and Temperament
  • Handle your kingsnake 1-2 times per week to maintain tameness. Avoid handling for 72 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.
  • Always approach calmly and support the snake’s body during handling.

Health and Wellness

Common Issues

  • Shedding Problems: Ensure proper humidity (~50-60%) to facilitate shedding.

  • Parasites: Regularly check for mites or other external parasites.

  • Respiratory Infections: Watch for open-mouth breathing or nasal discharge; adjust temperature and seek veterinary care if necessary.

Signs of a Healthy Snake

  • Clear eyes and nostrils

  • Active and alert behavior

  • Regular feeding and normal shedding cycles

Cleaning and Maintenance
  • Daily: Spot clean for waste and uneaten prey.

  • Weekly: Check hides, decor, and substrate for cleanliness.

  • Monthly: Deep clean the enclosure using reptile-safe disinfectants.

Additional Tips
  • Avoid housing multiple kingsnakes together; they are solitary and may eat each other.

  • Observe your snake’s behavior to adjust the enclosure setup as needed.

By following this care sheet, you’ll ensure a healthy and enriching environment for your California kingsnake. These snakes are a joy to care for and will thrive with the right setup and attention.