Reptile · GBIF taxon 8170369
California King Snake
Lampropeltis californiaeAlso known as California Kingsnake
The California King Snake is a nonvenomous constrictor whose glossy body usually shows contrasting dark and pale bands or longitudinal stripes. It hunts on the ground and in burrows across many dry and moderately moist habitats.
Nonvenomous SnakeConstrictorHabitat Generalist
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Rodents
- Lizards
- Other snakes
Predators
- Hawks
- Owls
- Coyotes
ThreatsRoad mortality, habitat loss, deliberate killing, illegal collection, and domestic pets
HabitatsGrassland, chaparral, woodland, desert edges, wetlands, farms, and suburban open space
Life spanOften 10 to 15 years; some individuals can live longer
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyColubridae
- SpeciesLampropeltis californiae
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Give any wild snake space and never attempt to capture or restrain it.
Responsible observation
- Distance: Stop several steps away and let the snake choose its route.
- Identify: Note glossy scales and clean bands or lengthwise stripes.
- Roads: Seek trained assistance rather than moving a snake yourself.
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