SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING - ALBINO STRIPED (Lampropeltis californiae)

SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING – ALBINO STRIPED (Lampropeltis californiae)

Full Description

Here’s a care guide for the California Kingsnake – Albino Striped Morph :

California Kingsnake – Albino Striped Morph Care Guide

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis californiae
Common Morph Name: Albino Striped California Kingsnake

Enclosure

Age Minimum Tank Size
Hatchling 10–20 gallons
Adult 40-gallon breeder (36″x18″x18″)

  • Lid must be secure! Kingsnakes are escape artists.

  • Substrate: Aspen bedding, paper towel, or reptile bark

  • Hides: At least 2 hides (warm & cool side)

  • Décor: Branches, cork bark, rocks for enrichment

️ Heating & Lighting

Zone Temperature
Warm side 85–90°F (29–32°C)
Cool side 70–75°F (21–24°C)
Night No lower than 65°F (18°C)

  • Heat Source: Under-tank heater or heat lamp (on thermostat!)

  • Lighting: Not required, but 12-hour light cycle is healthy

  • UVB: Optional, but can be beneficial for activity and appetite

Humidity

  • Ideal Range: 40–60%

  • Shedding: Slightly higher humidity during shed (use moist hide if needed)

  • Water Dish: Clean and refill daily

Feeding

Age Frequency Prey Size
Hatchling Every 5–7 days Pinky mice
Juvenile Every 7–10 days Fuzzy mice
Adult Every 10–14 days Appropriately sized adult mice (no wider than mid-body)

  • Feed frozen/thawed prey – never live

  • Avoid handling for 48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation

Cleaning

  • Spot clean weekly

  • Full substrate change & enclosure cleaning every 4–6 weeks

  • Use reptile-safe disinfectant

✋ Temperament & Handling

  • Generally docile, but can be squirmy as juveniles

  • Handle 2–3x per week to maintain tameness

  • Always wash hands before and after – kingsnakes may mistake fingers for food!

⚠️ Special Notes for Albino Morphs

  • No melanin = sensitivity to bright light

  • Avoid strong UVB or intense lighting

  • Often vibrant white/yellow with red eyes and bold striping

Lifespan & Size

  • Lifespan: 15–20+ years with proper care

  • Size: 3–5 feet average, occasionally up to 6 feet

Categories: ,