🦎 Reptiles

California Kingsnake

Bold-banded, hardy and easy to keep.

California kingsnakes are active, hardy snakes that come in striking banded and striped patterns. They are excellent for beginners but must be housed alone.

Lifespan15–20 years
SizeMedium · 3–4 ft
Care levelBeginner
Typical cost$20–40 / month
Great for
BeginnersActiveCuriousHardy
California Kingsnake

Photo: Connor Long · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

4′×2′×2′ for adults with a locking lid; warm side 85–88°F.

Frozen-thawed mice every 7–14 days.

Clutter and climbing branches.

Humid hide during shed.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Respiratory infections
  • Mites
  • Stuck shed
  • Regurgitation
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Annual reptile vet exam.

Find a vet near me