Description:
Scientific name: Lampropeltis rhombomaculata
Life span: 20 years
The majority of mature Northern Mole Kingsnakes have a total length of between 30-42 inches (76-107 cm). Adults are gray, brown, or orange in color, with about 55 blotches of reddish-brown with black borders that run down their bodies and tails. Elderly people may be almost entirely brown.
Native Region/Habitat
The Mid-Atlantic and Southeast of the United States are home to Mole Kingsnakes. They live in open woodlands, pine forests, and cultivated and uncultivated fields. Sandy, well-drained soil is attractive to these burrowing snakes.
Behavior:
The mole kingsnake is primarily nocturnal and is frequently observed at night on cemented roadways. This species has been seen to consume prey entirely and head first, including prey whose diameter is greater than 90% of the snake’s head diameter. It is believed that this behavior is hereditary.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Enclosure: Few mole kingsnakes grow larger than 4 feet, so they can be housed in a terrarium or cage that holds no more than 20 gallons of water. Making sure the cage is completely covered is crucial. A hide box, limbs, and other cage furnishings can also be added.
Temperature: When their terrarium is kept at a temperature close to room temperature, hatchling and adult mole snakes thrive. An additional temperature gradient can be provided by using an under-tank heater. The temperature of the cage should be between 84 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit at the warmer end and 74 to 76 degrees at the colder end.
Feeding: This species’ diet is relatively straightforward. Small animals, lizards, insects, invertebrates, and other snakes are among the prey that Mole Kingsnakes eat. Most subadult and adult snakes in captivity will eat frozen and thawed mice. In light of this, the terrarium should constantly include freshwater.
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