Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

This is the darkest and most poorly patterned of the southeastern kingsnakes. Primary color is black dorsally and laterally. Prominent white bars on upper labial (lip) scales. Most examples are unmarked or sparsely spotted on the back and have few to many tiny light flecks on the sides. The belly is cream colored with black blotches. Oviparous. Hatchlings are more strongly patterned and have a light dorsal chain pattern. Broad area of intergradation with the eastern kingsnake in AL and GA, and with the speckled kingsnake in AL, MS, TN. This, like other kingsnakes, is immune to the venom of pit vipers. Scales in 21 rows, anal plate single.

Unique Features:

Although a dark snake, the light flecks on the sides will differentiate this kingsnake from a black racer.

Habitat and Diet:

This snake is at home in woodlands, marsh edges, open fields, or along highway ditches.Dietary items for this snake include ground nesting mammals and bird, amphibians and reptiles.

Geographic Range:

GA, AL, NC, TN, KY, VA, WV, AR, IL, IN, MS, OH