SNAKE DESERT KING - ALBINO (Lampropeltis splendida)

SNAKE DESERT KING – ALBINO (Lampropeltis splendida)

$200.00

Full Description

Albino Desert Kingsnake Care Guide

(Lampropeltis splendida – Albino Morph)

Species Overview

  • Common Name: Albino Desert Kingsnake

  • Scientific Name: Lampropeltis splendida

  • Origin: Southwestern USA (Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, northern Mexico)

  • Size: 3–5 feet as adults

  • Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity

  • Temperament: Docile, curious, easy to handle

  • Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Enclosure

Snake Age/Size Minimum Enclosure Size
Hatchling 10–20 gallon tank/tub
Juvenile 20–30 gallon enclosure
Adult 40+ gallon (36″x18″x18″)

  • Enclosure Type: Glass terrarium, PVC enclosure, or secure rack system

  • Substrate: Aspen, ReptiChip, paper towels, or cypress mulch

  • Decor:

    • At least 2 hides (warm and cool side)

    • Climbing branches, rocks, foliage

    • Water dish large enough for soaking

️ Heating & Lighting

Zone Temperature Range
Warm Side 85–90°F (29–32°C)
Cool Side 72–75°F (22–24°C)
Night Drop 65–70°F (18–21°C) (optional)

  • Heating: Use a heat mat, heat tape, or ceramic heater with a thermostat

  • Lighting: Not required, but a 12-hour light/dark cycle is beneficial

  • UVB: Optional (a low-output UVB bulb like 5.0 may support long-term health)

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity Range: 30–50%

  • Water Bowl: Clean, shallow bowl at all times

  • Shedding: Provide a moist hide or light misting if sheds are incomplete

️ Feeding

Age Group Feeding Frequency Prey Type
Hatchlings Every 5–6 days Pinky mice
Juveniles Every 7–10 days Fuzzy/hopper mice
Adults Every 10–14 days Adult mice or small rats

  • Prey size: About the same width as the thickest part of the snake

  • Feeding Type: Always feed frozen/thawed prey (never live unless necessary)

  • Tips: Use tongs; avoid handling 1–2 days after feeding

✋ Handling & Behavior

  • Temperament: Calm and manageable; great for beginners

  • Handling Tips:

    • Support the whole body

    • Handle gently and regularly to build trust

    • Avoid handling when shedding or after feeding

Cleaning Routine

  • Spot Clean: Daily (remove feces, shed skin, leftover food)

  • Water Dish: Clean and refill every 2–3 days

  • Deep Clean: Every 3–4 weeks (replace substrate, disinfect tank and décor)

⚠️ Notes & Warnings

  • Housing: Keep individually – kingsnakes are cannibalistic

  • Security: These snakes are escape artists — secure the enclosure tightly

  • Health Signs to Watch:

    • Incomplete sheds

    • Loss of appetite

    • Lethargy

    • Mites or wheezing

✅ Essential Supplies Checklist

  • Escape-proof 40+ gallon enclosure

  • Thermostat-controlled heat source

  • Digital thermometer and hygrometer

  • Safe substrate

  • Two hides (cool & warm)

  • Water bowl

  • Feeding tongs

  • Frozen/thawed rodents

  • Enclosure cleaner

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