Eastern Kingsnake
Lampropeltis getula
They are large snakes ranging from about 900 – 1220 mm in total length. They are shiny black with smooth scales comprising of white or yellow chain-link bands. These cros…
How to identify
They are large snakes ranging from about 900 – 1220 mm in total length. They are shiny black with smooth scales comprising of white or yellow chain-link bands. These cross its back and connect along the sides. As a result of this, this specie is also referred to as the chain kingsnake. The Eastern Kingsnakes also have a short stout head with small beady eyes. Lastly, they have an undivided anal plate.
Range
The Eastern Kingsnakes can be found throughout the eastern United States north to New Jersey. They can also be found in all areas of Georgia and South Carolina.
Habitat
This specie can be found in many habitats which include hardwood and pine forests, bottomlands and swamps. They can also be found in hammocks, tidal wetlands and farmlands and suburban areas. They are active almost only by day, being most active in the morning during the summer. Their diet is made up of snakes, lizards, rodents, birds, and especially turtle eggs. Mating occurs during spring and the females lay about 3 – 24 eggs in the early summer. Hatching occurs in August – September.
Variations
Lampropeltis getula californiae or California kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula floridana or Florida kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula getula or Eastern kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula holbrooki or Speckled kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula nigrita or Mexican black kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula splendida or Desert kingsnake. Lampropeltis getula meansi or Apalachicola Lowlands kingsnake.
Similar species
Lampropeltis elapsoides or the Scarlet kingsnake. Their total length usually ranges from 400 – 500 mm. Lampropeltis annulata or the Mexican milk snake. Their total length usually ranges to about 610 – 760 mm. Lampropeltis alterna or the Gray-banded kingsnake. Their total length is usually about 1200 mm.
Name and etymology
Getula: Relating to the Getulians people of Morocco, referencing the chain-like pattern of the snake being similar to that of a common pattern in the Getulian culture.
More illustrations
Apalachicola Kingsnake
At a glance
Size
8 to 153 cm
Range
The Eastern Kingsnakes can be found throughout the eastern United States north to New Jersey. They can also be found in all a…
Habitat
This specie can be found in many habitats which include hardwood and pine forests, bottomlands and swamps. They can also be f…
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap