SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING - LAVENDER (Lampropeltis californiae)

SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING – LAVENDER (Lampropeltis californiae)

Full Description

Here’s a complete care guide for the Lavender California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) — a visually striking, hardy, and beginner-friendly snake.

Lavender California Kingsnake Care Guide

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis californiae
Morph: Lavender (T-positive albino; soft lavender or pinkish with light bands)
Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care
Adult Size: 3–5 feet (some reach 6 feet)
Temperament: Curious, active, easy to tame over time

Enclosure Setup

Life Stage Minimum Enclosure Size
Hatchling 10–20 gallons
Juvenile 20–30 gallons
Adult 40 gallons (36x18x18″) or larger

  • Enclosure type: Secure tank with a locking lid — kingsnakes are escape artists.

  • Substrate: Aspen, paper towels, cypress mulch, or coconut fiber

  • Decor: Branches, hides (2 minimum), rocks, tunnels

  • Lighting: Standard day/night cycle (12 hrs each); UVB optional

️ Temperature & Heating

Area Temperature
Warm side 85–90°F (29–32°C)
Cool side 70–75°F (21–24°C)
Night drop 65–70°F (18–21°C)

  • Heating tools: Under-tank heater or ceramic heat emitter (on thermostat)

  • No hot rocks — can cause burns

  • Thermometer: Use digital with probes for accuracy

Humidity & Water

  • Ideal humidity: 40–60%

  • Water dish: Always clean; large enough for soaking during shed

  • Humidity boost: During shed, add a moist hide or lightly mist the enclosure

️ Feeding

Age Frequency Prey Type
Hatchling Every 5–7 days Pinky mice
Juvenile Every 7–10 days Fuzzy/hopper mice
Adult Every 10–14 days Adult mice or small rats

  • Feed pre-killed frozen/thawed rodents

  • Don’t handle for 24–48 hours after feeding

  • Adjust prey size to snake’s width (1–1.5x)

Behavior & Handling

  • May be squirmy or defensive when young

  • Tail rattling, musking, or striking is common early on but fades with handling

  • Handle gently 2–3 times per week for 5–10 minutes

  • Avoid strong scents like rodent residue on your hands

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot clean: Daily

  • Water change: Every 2–3 days or when dirty

  • Full enclosure clean: Every 3–5 weeks (replace substrate, disinfect decor)

Morph-Specific Notes (Lavender)

  • T-positive albino: Lacks black pigment but retains some color, producing pinkish-lavender hues and light bands

  • Eyes: Ruby red or pink

  • No extra care needs compared to normal kingsnakes

⚠️ Key Tips

  • Solo only: Kingsnakes are cannibalistic — house separately

  • Use escape-proof lids — they are excellent climbers and escape artists

  • Quarantine new reptiles before housing in same room

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