Description:
Scientific name: Lampropeltis splendida
Life span: 10-15 years
The Colubridae family of snakes, the largest family of snakes in the world, includes the Desert Kingsnake. Black or very dark brown with fine off-white or yellow specks make up its glossy dorsum. The narrow, ill-defined vertebral crossbands that these light specks generate are separated by black rectangular regions. Along the lower sides, pale yellow scales could be dominant. Both adult and juvenile snakes have mostly-black abdomens with white or pale yellow spots indicating the ends of the ventral plates.
Native Region/Habitat
In Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico, desert kingsnakes can be found. Within their range, they can be found in any rural area. These snakes also frequent riparian corridors, savannas, grasslands, and forests, frequently close to water sources.
Behavior:
Desert kingsnakes live alone and in secrecy. They often hide out during the daytime under logs or other debris, emerging to hunt at night. When confronted by people, desert kingsnakes are peaceful animals. If they do not attempt to flee, they frequently “play dead” by rolling onto their backs and staying still. When faced with humans, they are peaceful animals. If they do not attempt to flee, they frequently “play dead” by rolling onto their backs and staying still.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
As long as the snakes are handled carefully and kept in tidy enclosures that imitate their natural habitat, taking care of these snakes is simple.
- An enclosure of at least 30 gallons is necessary for a full-sized desert kingsnake. The enclosure needs to be tall enough to permit a deep layer of substrate for digging even though the snake likes to investigate its surroundings on the ground.
- The cool area of the tank should make up two-thirds of it, with daytime temperatures of 80°F and nighttime temperatures of 68–75°F. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. The heated part should occupy the remaining third of the tank. To heat the tank to 90°F, put a heat source there, such as a basking lamp. Warming up the basking area can also be accomplished with an under-tank heat pad; however, avoid using hot rocks, which could harm the snake’s skin.
- The humidity inside the cage should range from 50% to 75%. A hygrometer can be used to measure the humidity levels. To maintain humidity levels within the ideal range, put a sizable water bowl within the tank. If necessary, sprinkle the tank several times daily.
- One feeding per week is recommended for adult desert kingsnakes. Choose a frozen and defrosted rat or mouse that is the same size as the snake’s girth or slightly larger. A pinkie mouse should be fed to young desert kingsnakes every four days.
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