California Mountain Kingsnake
(Lampropeltis zonata)
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California Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata) |
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Color Photographs: Rob Lovich, U.S. Geological Survey
Color Photograph © Corel Corp. |
Lampropeltis pyromelana The distribution of the Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake does not overlap that of the California Mountain Kingsnake.
Lampropeltis triangulum The distribution of the Milk Snake does not overlap that of the California Mountain Kingsnake.
Micruroides euryxanthus The distribution of the Western Coral Snake does not overlap that of the California Mountain Kingsnake.
Rhinocheilus lecontei The Long-nosed Snake also has red, white, and black bands, but the scales in the black bands are heavily spotted with white and the head has a distinctive long, pointed appearance. California Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata) Identification: Snake 20 to 40 inches in length. A banded snake with red, white, and black bands. Head with black snout and a white band at the base of the neck. Scales smooth and anal plate single. Red bands may be interrupted on the back by the black borders. Red reduced or absent in some isolated populations. Bands constant in width. White bands do not grow wider toward the belly. Geographical Variation: Several subspecific names have been proposed. However Collins and Taggart (2002) recognize only the nominate species. Range (see map below): This species is found throughout the mountainous regions of California, southern Oregon, and northern Baja California, with an isolated population in Washington. Habitat: The California Mountain Kingsnake is a denizen of montane regions included coniferous forest, chaparral, and other types of woodland. It is most likely to be found near streams in wooded areas with rotten logs. Food: This species eats a variety of small vertebrates including lizards, birds, bird eggs, and small mammals. Behavior: This snake is primarily diurnal, but can change to a nocturnal habit during warm weather. Reproduction: The clutch consists of 3 to 8 eggs laid during June and July.
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California Mountain Kingsnake
Similar Species: Sonoran
Mountain Kingsnake Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) Western Coral Snake (Micruroides euryxanthus) Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei)
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Similar Species |
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