Types of Kingsnakes

Eight species of kingsnakes and nearly 50 subspecies inhabit North America, Central America and the northern part of South America. Although their appearance may be menacing, kingsnakes are harmless to humans. They kill by constriction and are able to swallow poisonous reptiles because their digestive system is immune to venom. Different varieties of kingsnakes are found in many habitats including mountainous areas, desert lands, wooded forests and coastal landscapes.

  1. Common Kingsnake

    • As its name suggests, common kingsnakes are the most well-known variety of kingsnake. These colorful and vibrant snakes typically measure between 2 and 4 feet long. Common kingsnakes feed during the day on eggs and a variety of small creatures including toads, birds and rodents. Although not poisonous themselves, these snakes, along with most other kingsnakes, feed on venomous snakes. Their nontoxic bite makes them harmless to humans.

    Gray-Banded Kingsnake

    • Found primarily in western regions of Texas, this nonvenomous creature makes its habitat in arid, desert regions. As the name suggests, the gray-banded kingsnake is gray in color, with some traces of orange coloring in some regions. Unlike the common kingsnake, this animal is primarily nocturnal -- emerging from its burrow to feed on sleeping creatures. The gray-banded kingsnake, often reaching 36 inches in length, is unlikely to bite or attack humans.

    Prairie Kingsnake

    • The prairie kingsnake, generally deep brown in color, usually measures 30 to 40 inches in length. Primarily feeding on rodents, this creature will also consume small reptiles and birds. These snakes are found in fields and grassy regions. Although they are harmless reptiles, prairie kingsnakes' defense mechanism consists of rapid vibration of their tails, thus tricking attackers into believing they are a rattlesnake or other venomous creature.

    California Mountain Kingsnake

    • Its bright red-and-yellow coloring often has this harmless animal confused with the dangerous coral snake. For this reason, many people avoid contact with these reptiles. The colorful creatures may reach 48 inches in length. Rocky Mountain regions and warm, wooded glens are where this particular snake resides. Its diet is primarily the same as most other kingsnakes' -- feeding mostly on rodents and small reptiles.