Mexican Black Kingsnake

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Glossy black, and hungry for snakes

Mexican black kingsnakes are the solid black Lampropeltis from northwestern Mexico, usually treated with the California kingsnake group. Adults are about 3 to 4 feet and often live 15 to 20 years. A captive-bred animal on thawed mice is calm, and the care suits a beginner. It does not fit a cage with a second snake.

They are ophiophagous. A cagemate is prey. Keep them singly, and do not house them where another snake's smell covers your hands. Temperatures of the mid 70s to mid 80s, with a warm hide a little higher, suit them. A 40-gallon or longer tub is a fair adult cage. Humidity can sit in the ordinary household range, with a moist box at shed time. A tight lid is part of the setup. Kingsnakes test every gap.

Mice, light, and a closed door

One thawed mouse that leaves a small bulge is a meal. Power feeding grows a fat snake with a short life. Handle after the meal has had a couple of days to digest. They musk when scared, especially as babies. The black color hides mites until you look at the eyes and the belly. Buy captive-bred.

A snake off food with weight loss is the case on the not-eating page. Reptile clinics are indexed by ARAV.

Mexican black kingsnake questions

Will a Mexican black kingsnake eat another snake?

Yes. Kingsnakes eat other snakes, including their own species. One animal per cage, including during feeding and cleaning.

Are they good first snakes?

Care is beginner. A captive-bred Mexican black kingsnake that eats thawed mice is a straightforward pet. The adult is still 3 to 4 feet of muscle.

How long do they live?

About 15 to 20 years. Budget the thermostat and the vet for that whole span.