Everything You Need to Know About Mexican Black King Snakes

Introduction

Mexican black king snakes (Lampropeltis getula nigrita) are a species of nonvenomous snake found in North America. They are a popular choice for pet owners because of their docile nature, attractive coloration and relative ease of care. This article will provide an overview of the species, including their natural habitat and behavior, as well as care tips for those interested in keeping one as a pet.

Appearance & Coloration

Mexican black king snakes are a medium-sized species, typically reaching between one and two feet in length. They have smooth scales and a single row of large spots on their bodies. The base color of their bodies is usually black, but they can also be found in shades of brown, gray or olive. The spots are typically yellow, orange or red, and may have white or cream outlines.

Natural Habitat & Diet

Mexican black king snakes are native to the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. They can be found in a variety of habitats, such as woodlands, deserts, grasslands and scrublands. They are primarily nocturnal, spending the day in burrows or crevices and emerging at night to hunt. They feed mainly on rodents, lizards, frogs and other small animals.

Behavior & Temperament

Mexican black king snakes are generally non-aggressive and docile, making them a popular choice for pet owners. They are shy and timid, but can be handled if done so gently and with patience. They may become defensive if threatened, but rarely bite. They are also quite active and enjoy exploring their enclosure.

Care & Housing

Mexican black king snakes require a secure enclosure, such as a glass aquarium with a tight-fitting lid. The enclosure should be at least 10 gallons in size and have an ambient temperature of 75-85°F. They also require a hide box, and a branch or other climbing object. The substrate should be a loose material such as aspen bedding or rabbit pellets.

Feeding

Mexican black king snakes should be fed a diet of appropriately sized live prey. This can include mice, rats, lizards and other small animals. They should be fed once or twice a week, and any uneaten prey should be removed from the enclosure. It is important to monitor their feeding to ensure they are receiving the proper nutrition and not becoming overweight.

Health & Well-being

Mexican black king snakes are generally hardy and robust animals, but can be susceptible to certain health issues if not properly cared for. It is important to keep their enclosure clean, and to monitor them for any signs of illness or injury. Common health issues include respiratory infections, parasites and mites. If any health issues are observed, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Mexican black king snakes are a popular species of pet snake due to their attractive coloration, docile nature and relative ease of care. They are native to the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas and can be found in a variety of habitats. They require an enclosure of at least 10 gallons, an appropriate diet, and regular monitoring for signs of illness or injury. With proper care, Mexican black king snakes can make a rewarding and enjoyable pet for years to come.