Behavior of California King Snakes

The California king snake is a specific breed of king snake that has unique markings. The snakes are typically black with white bands along it. However, these markings can vary a little bit. These snakes grow to about 4 feet on average. They will eat any snake they can attack, which is why they are called king snakes. California king snakes can be found in all regions of the state.

  1. Diurnal

    • These snakes are diurnal, meaning they are active in both the day and the night. The determining factor for when these snakes come out to eat and be active is the temperature. They like warm temperatures so they tend to move around during the sunrise and sunset hours and occasionally at night when it is warm. They can be found in mostly warm desert regions for this reason.

    Reproduction

    • California king snakes mate all throughout the spring and the female will lay about 10 eggs a few weeks after mating. She lays them in abandoned burrows, logs or sand so they can be hidden. Once she lays them, she leaves and the hatchlings are on their own. They hatch about two months after being laid and will mature in three to four years.

    Hunting

    • Hunting takes place when the weather is warm, but usually during sunrise and sunset hours. The California king snakes are formidable predators due to their large size and will hunt anything they think they can kill, including poisonous snakes like rattlesnakes. King snakes are protected from venom because of an enzyme their bodies produce.

    Captivity

    • California king snakes fare very well in captivity and are among the easiest snakes to own. It is best to have snakes that have been bred in captivity. As long as they have a glass aquarium, a bowl they can drink from and soak in and a heat lamp, they will live long healthy lives. Feed them live or frozen mice, whichever you are more comfortable with. They can live for about 20 years.

    Considerations

    • While king snakes are typically tame when in captivity, do not let small children around them. They could potentially hurt or lose the snake and there is always the chance they could get bitten. Also, king snakes can protect themselves by making their tails vibrate, which will make any attackers think they are rattlesnakes.