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reptilebeginner
California Kingsnake
Lampropeltis californiae
A bold, active California native with striking bands — one of the most popular beginner snakes.
3–4.5 ft15–20+ years
Habitat
Enclosure
20 gal long for juveniles · 40 gal breeder for adults
Temperature
Warm side 85–88°F · cool side 72–78°F
Humidity / Water
30–50%
Heating & lighting
Under-tank heat mat or overhead halogen on a thermostat covering a third of the floor. UVB optional but beneficial.
Diet
Feed these
- Frozen-thawed mice, sized to the body width
Never feed
- Live rodents
- Housing near or with other snakes — kingsnakes eat snakes
- Handling for 48 hours after feeding
Feed every 7–10 days. Active, curious escape artists — a secure locking lid is mandatory.
Cohabitation
Can live with
No one — house this species alone.
Never house with
Corn snakes, ball pythons and other snakes — kingsnakes eat other snakes Any other species
Never house with any other snake — kingsnakes are ophiophagous (snake-eaters) and will kill and eat a cage mate.
