SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING - MOSAIC (Lampropeltis californiae)

SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING – MOSAIC (Lampropeltis californiae)

Full Description

Here’s a complete care guide for the Mosaic California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) — a stunning and rare morph with irregular, blotched banding or broken patterns.

California Kingsnake – Mosaic Morph Care Guide

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis californiae
Morph Name: Mosaic
Appearance: Random, mosaic-like mix of banding and blotches; high visual contrast
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
Adult Size: 3–5 feet (up to 6 ft possible)
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Enclosure Requirements

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

  • Secure lid is critical — kingsnakes are skilled escape artists

  • Substrate: Aspen bedding, coconut husk, or paper towels

  • Hides: 2+ (one on each temperature gradient side)

  • Décor: Branches, rocks, tunnels for enrichment

️ Heating & Lighting

Zone Temp Range
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: Under-tank heater or ceramic heat emitter, controlled with a thermostat

  • Lighting: Not required, but a 12-hour day/night cycle is recommended

  • UVB: Optional — low-output (2–5%) can benefit natural behavior

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity range: 40–60%

  • Water: Shallow, clean bowl for drinking and soaking

  • During shed: Add a moist hide or lightly mist if needed

️ Feeding Schedule

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/small rats

  • Feed frozen/thawed rodents only

  • Avoid handling for 24–48 hours post-feeding

  • Prey should be about 1–1.5x the width of the snake’s body

✋ Handling & Temperament

  • Kingsnakes are active and curious

  • Young snakes may rattle tails, musk, or strike — usually tame with regular, gentle handling

  • Handle 2–3 times per week to build trust

  • Wash hands before/after to avoid prey scent confusion

Cleaning Routine

  • Spot clean: Daily

  • Water change: Every 2–3 days or sooner if soiled

  • Full clean: Every 3–5 weeks using reptile-safe disinfectants

Mosaic Morph Specifics

  • Mosaic kingsnakes have highly variable, broken, or aberrant patterns

  • No additional care needs vs. other morphs

  • Rarity may increase cost and desirability, but not difficulty

⚠️ Additional Tips

  • Solo housing only — kingsnakes are cannibalistic

  • Ensure escape-proof lid and secure heating

  • Don’t house with other snakes or animals

  • Quarantine new reptiles for at least 30 days

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