Keeping kingsnakes: profile and care
Important: house alone – size, climate and feeding
At a glance
- Adult size: usually 80–120 cm, some up to 150 cm
- Weight: 300–600 g on average
- Origin: North and Central America
- Suitable for beginners: yes, with some basic experience
- Lifespan: 15–20 years
The right vivarium
At least 100 x 50 x 50 cm with a substrate they can burrow into, several hides, climbing opportunities such as cork and roots, a water bowl and good ventilation.
Temperature, lighting & climate
- Daytime 24–30 °C, with a warmer basking spot up to 32 °C
- Night-time 20–22 °C
- Additional UVB lighting is not essential, but is often recommended
Feeding
Frozen-thawed food such as fuzzies or adult mice: juveniles weekly, adults every 10–14 days.
Temperament & handling
Calm but inquisitive, and active around dusk and at night. Non-venomous and harmless to people.
Always keep kingsnakes on their own – they can be cannibalistic and will eat other snakes.