SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING - STRIPED (Lampropeltis californiae)

SNAKE CALIFORNIA KING – STRIPED (Lampropeltis californiae)

Full Description

Here’s a complete care guide for the Striped California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) — one of the most popular and hardy pet snakes!

California Kingsnake – Striped Morph Care Guide

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis californiae
Common Morph: Striped (typically black or brown body with yellow or white dorsal stripe)
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
Adult Size: 3–5 feet (up to 6 ft possible)
Temperament: Alert, curious, generally easy to handle

Enclosure

Age Minimum Tank Size
Hatchling 10–20 gallons
Adult 30–40 gallons (minimum)

  • Secure lid is a must! Kingsnakes are escape artists.

  • Substrate: Aspen bedding, paper towels, or coconut husk (spot-clean friendly)

  • Hides: 2+ hides (one on warm side, one on cool side)

  • Décor: Branches, cork bark, rocks, tunnels

️ Temperature & 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 (UTH) or heat lamp — always on a thermostat

  • UVB lighting: Optional, but a low-output UVB bulb (2–5%) may benefit behavior

  • Maintain a 12-hour light cycle

Humidity & Hydration

  • Ideal humidity: 40–60%

  • Water dish: Always clean, large enough to soak in

  • During shedding, you can lightly mist or add a moist hide (sphagnum moss)

️ Feeding

Age Frequency Prey Size
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 depending on size)

  • Feed frozen/thawed prey only

  • Do not handle 24–48 hours after feeding

✋ Handling & Temperament

  • Hatchlings may be nervous or defensive (may hiss or rattle tail), but usually calm with gentle handling

  • Handle 2–3 times per week to maintain tameness

  • Always wash hands before/after handling – kingsnakes may smell food and strike

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot clean soiled substrate daily

  • Full clean every 3–5 weeks

  • Use reptile-safe disinfectants only

Morph-Specific Info: Striped

  • Striped morphs feature a bold dorsal stripe from head to tail

  • Common colors: Black + white, brown + cream, or even albino variants

  • No special care differences from normal kingsnakes

Enrichment & Behavior

  • Kingsnakes are active, inquisitive, and will explore if given enrichment (branches, tunnels, climbing areas)

  • Known for constricting and eating other snakes — never house with others

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