Care Sheet for King SnakesAverage Rating Given To This Care Sheet Is 0 (1=lowest, 5=highest) Last Updated: 07/25/2008 |
Main Category: | Snakes |
Sub Category: | King Snakes |
Care Sheet Submitted By: | CobraKing |
Years Experience: | N/A |
Species: | California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula Californiae) |
Other Species or Phases this Care Sheet May Cover: | Any other species of Lampropeltis originating from the desert or a temperate environment. |
Sexing and Characteristics: | The most positive way is to probe, but if you put gentle pressure near the vent and go down, the organs may "pop" out. |
Mostly Active During: | Both |
Substrate and Water Needs: | Aspen bedding is the best substrate by the fact that it is safe ans easily cleaned. Calcium based sand is also acceptable, along with paper towels. Make sure substrate is always dry and clean. Provide clean water at all times, and allow snake to soak in the water dish. |
Lighting and UVB: | Lighting and UV are beneficial, but not required, just make sure the cage does not over-heat. I personally do not give Albino’s UV based on their sensitive skin and eyes. |
Temperatures and Humidity: | Humidity isn’t a big concern, as long as the snake is shedding correctly. I recommend having a snug hide box with vermiculite with a 1:1 ratio of vermiculite to water to ensure the snake has the option to gain humidity at any time. Temperature is best kept between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit on the warm side during the day. I allow the temperature to drop to room at night, because nature doesn’t provide heat at night. The cool side of the cage should remain at room temperature. If your snake is constantly on the warm side it is too cold, and vice-verse if it’s too hot. |
Heating and Equipment: | I provide an under-tank heater at all times, because the ground is warm even after dark, where as I keep my heat lamp on for 12 hours. A rheostat can be used for the bulb during the day to decrease heat. I recommend a proportional thermostat or a rheostat over a simple thermostat, so the heat will lower or raise to meet temperature demands instead of unnaturally simply shutting off. |
Caging Provided: | I recommend a 20 gallon aquarium for adults, though larger or smaller is alright, as long as the temperature gradient is still met. For breeders, use a 32 qt. tub. |
Diet: | Carnivorous |
Description of Diet: | Feed appropriately sized mice once a week for adults and every 4-5 days for younger snakes. Mice should leave a lump, but not make the snake lethargic or obese. |
Supplements, Nutrition and Usage: | N/A |
Maintenance: | Completely clean cage every 1-2 months, but spot check daily. Replace water often. Clean caging with a 1:30 ratio of bleach to water. Also use dish soap, but make sure all cleaning materials are rinsed off and caging is dry before re-introducing snake. |
Some Words on this Species: | A beautiful animal to keep and breed. Makes a great pet and an awesome companion. No better snake. |
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