Gray-Banded Kingsnake

Range

Ranges through west Texas, southwest New Mexico, and across the border into central Mexico (mostly in the state of Coahuila).

Habitats

It is a secretive nocturnal species that lives in desert habitats. Much of its range is rocky mountainous terrain with little human activity.

Identification

A mid-sized nonvenomous snake averaging 3 feet in length, but can reach 4 feet. It has a thin body with smooth scales. Its head is slightly wider than its neck, and tapers to a somewhat pointed snout. I has large eyes with round pupils. Its varies in color and pattern, but in general it is banded with grey, black, orange, and sometimes white. It usually has a black diagonal bar behind each eye.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians