Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

Although it has been documented at 6 feet in length, a 4 to 5 foot adult size is more common This is a dark snake with a white or yellow spot in the center of almost every scale. The belly is white to yellow with many variably shaped dark markings. There is a broad area of intergradation with the desert kingsnake in KS, OK, TX. Hatchlings have spotted sides and dorsal crossbands. Scales in 21 rows, anal plate single. This, like other kingsnakes, is immune to the venom of pit viper.

Unique Features:

The heavily speckled dark coloration should identify this pretty and common snake.

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 birds, amphibians and reptiles

Geographic Range:

AL, TN, AR, IL, LA, MS, TX, ID, KS, MO, NE, IA, OK