Scarlet Kingsnake

Looks how to spot one

Smooth, shiny scales

The scarlet kingsnake has a slender, small body with smooth scales and a small head that is barely distinct from the neck. Its most striking feature is the pattern of alternating red, black, and yellow or white rings that encircle the entire body. The red and yellow rings never touch, being separated by black rings. The snout is red, and the belly shows the same banding as the back.21

Personality what they are like

Scarlet kingsnakes are shy, nervous snakes that prefer to hide rather than confront. When startled, they may strike defensively, vibrate their tail, or release a foul-smelling musk, but they are not aggressive and will only bite as a last resort. They do not enjoy handling and are best observed rather than handled frequently.25

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These snakes are nocturnal and secretive, spending most of their time hidden under logs, bark, or leaf litter. They are excellent climbers and may use vertical space. A secure, escape-proof enclosure with plenty of hiding spots is essential. They do not require a large area, but the enclosure must be kept moist and at a temperature between 75 and 85°F (24 to 29°C) with a slight drop at night. Bright lights should be avoided.52

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Scarlet kingsnakes need a clean, moist environment. Provide a wide, shallow water bowl and keep the substrate slightly damp but not wet. They are notorious escape artists, so a tight-fitting, locking lid is a must. Shedding skin should be checked regularly, and the enclosure should be spot-cleaned as needed. No special grooming is required beyond maintaining proper humidity and hygiene.5

Home where they are happiest

In the wild, scarlet kingsnakes live in wet pinelands, mesic hammocks, and sandy, well-drained woodlands. They are often found under rocks, logs, and debris, and they may climb trees. In captivity, a 10-gallon terrarium with a secure, locking lid is sufficient for one adult, though some keepers prefer a 20-gallon vertical tank. Use a substrate like aspen shavings or indoor-outdoor carpeting, and provide several hiding places. Keep the enclosure moist but not waterlogged, and maintain temperatures between 75 and 85°F (24 to 29°C) with a slight night-time drop. Avoid basking lights, which can be harmful.52

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Scarlet kingsnakes are specialist feeders, eating primarily lizards, especially skinks, and small snakes. They kill prey by constriction. In captivity, many individuals will only accept live lizards and may refuse mice or frozen-thawed food. Some keepers have had success by scenting mice with lizard droppings or placing them inside a dead lizard. Newborns may eat small frogs or invertebrates. It is important to offer food in the evening, as these snakes are nocturnal.65

Company who they like around

Scarlet kingsnakes are solitary and should be housed alone. They are not social animals and do not require company. Handling should be minimal and gentle, as they are nervous and may become stressed. They are not dangerous to humans or pets, but they may bite if provoked. In some regions, they may be protected, so check local laws before keeping one as a pet.27

The story where it all began

The scarlet kingsnake was long considered a subspecies of the eastern milk snake, known as Lampropeltis triangulum elapsoides. However, genetic studies have shown that the milk snake complex actually contains several distinct lineages, and the scarlet kingsnake is now recognised as a separate species, Lampropeltis elapsoides. It is named for its bright red, black, and yellow banding, which mimics the venomous coral snake, a classic example of Batesian mimicry. This small, secretive snake has been kept in the pet trade for many years, though it is considered challenging to keep due to its specialised diet and nervous nature. It is seldom bred in captivity, and most wild-caught individuals may refuse to eat anything other than live lizards.15

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN

No data4

CITES

Not listed4

USFWS

Not listed4