Reptile · GBIF taxon 5224464
Prairie Kingsnake
Lampropeltis calligasterAlso known as Yellow-bellied Kingsnake
Prairie kingsnakes slip quietly through grasslands and open woodlands in search of small mammals, lizards, and other snakes. They kill prey using powerful constriction and possess natural immunity to the venom of local pit vipers. When threatened, these secretive reptiles vibrate their tails against dry leaves to imitate a rattlesnake sound.
Non-venomousSecretiveConstrictor
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Voles
- Mice
- Lizards
Predators
- Red-tailed Hawks
- Coyotes
- Raccoons
ThreatsHabitat destruction, vehicle strikes, and human persecution
HabitatsPrairies, grasslands, pastures, and open woodlands
Life span10 to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyColubridae
- SpeciesLampropeltis calligaster
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Non-venomous but can bite if handled; observe from a respectful distance.
Responsible observation
- Look near cover: Scan under tin sheets, flat stones, and fallen logs during warm mornings.
- Give space: Avoid cornering wild snakes to prevent defensive bites and foul musking.
Prey Wikimedia Commons / Public domain · cc0
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