Mexican Black Kingsnake

Looks how to spot one

scales

The body is covered in smooth, shiny scales that appear solid black but are actually a very deep, dark chocolate brown. Under direct light the scales shimmer with a blue iridescence. Juveniles may have small white or yellow spots, especially under the chin, but these usually fade as the snake matures. The belly is sometimes marked with a few white scales.1

Personality what they are like

Mexican black kingsnakes are curious and active snakes. With regular gentle handling they usually become calm and docile, but juveniles may musk (release a foul smell) or nip when frightened. Some individuals remain fast and defensive, and all have a strong feeding response, so care is needed at feeding time. They are non-venomous constrictors.145

Daily activity how busy a day looks

They are crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk, but may also be active during the day. They need space to explore and stretch out fully.64

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Shedding requires moderate humidity (40-55%). Provide a humid hide or mist the enclosure lightly during shedding. Clean water must always be available. Spot-clean waste regularly.35

Home where they are happiest

A secure, escape-proof enclosure is essential. Minimum size for an adult is 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft (120 x 60 x 60 cm), such as a 40-gallon breeder tank or larger. Provide a thermal gradient with a warm side (85-90°F / 29-32°C) and a cool side (70-75°F / 21-24°C). Use substrate like coconut fibre, aspen chips or reptile bark. Include at least two hides (one warm, one cool) and a water bowl large enough for soaking. Humidity should be 40-55%.345

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In the wild they eat snakes (including venomous species), lizards, rodents, birds and eggs. In captivity they thrive on a diet of appropriately sized rodents (mice or rats). Feed juveniles every 5-7 days and adults every 10-14 days. Prey should be about 10% of the snake's body weight. Always use pre-killed prey to avoid injury.163

Company who they like around

This snake must be housed alone. Kingsnakes are ophiophagous (snake-eaters) and will eat other snakes, including members of their own species. They are not venomous and are legal to keep as pets in most places, but always check local regulations.145

The story where it all began

The Mexican black kingsnake is a subspecies of the common kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). It is distinguished from other kingsnakes by its uniform dark brown or slaty black dorsal colouration, without any rings or stripes. This variety is native to the Sonoran Desert region. It has been kept in captivity for many years and is prized for its striking solid black appearance and generally calm nature. Some herpetologists now consider it a separate species (Lampropeltis nigrita).12

Recognised by the official bits

The Reptile Database

Lists Lampropeltis nigrita as a valid species or subspecies, with distribution in Mexico (Sinaloa, Sonora) and USA (SE Arizona).2