
Scarlet Kingsnakes can be found in pine flat woods, pine-oak forests, fields, agricultural areas, and occasionally urban environments.

You’re most likely to spot one crossing the road at night.Ī nocturnal species, the Northern Mole Kingsnake feeds primarily on rodents. These snakes are difficult to find since they spend most of their time underground in old animal burrows or under logs and rocks. The head is indistinct from the body, and there is sometimes a dark line through the eye.Ī subspecies of the Yellow-bellied Kingsnake, the Northern Mole Kingsnake prefers open habitats in the United States near forest edges.

Coloration is gray, light brown, or orangish with black-bordered darker brown, gray, or reddish-brown blotches down its body, which fade with age.Adults range from 30 to 40 inches in length.Lampropeltis calligaster rhombomaculata.Like many other kingsnakes, this species is sometimes kept as pets. However, they are sometimes run over when crossing roads or killed because they are mistaken for being venomous. This species is considered of least concern and doesn’t seem to face any significant conservation risks. However, these snakes are non-venomous and don’t typically bite, but they will release a foul-smelling musk if grabbed! They accomplish this mimicry by shaking the tip of their tail in dry leaf litter. If disturbed, the Prairie Kingsnake may try to warn perceived threats by mimicking a rattlesnake. They constrict their prey, coiling around and suffocating it before consuming. These snakes feed on a wide variety of prey, such as mice, lizards, other snakes (including other Prairie Kingsnakes), insects, birds, bird eggs, and amphibians. Their presence inside barns is likely due to the high number of mice, which are some of their favorite prey. Look for a gray or tan Y- or V-shaped mark near the rear of the head.Įastern Milksnakes get their unique name from an old myth that they milked cows since they’re commonly found in barns! Obviously, this isn’t true.Coloration is tan or gray with 3 to 5 rows of reddish-brown, black-edged blotches.Adults typically range from 24 to 36 inches in length.RELATED: 50 Common LIZARDS Found in the United States! (With Photos).RELATED: 50 Common SNAKES That Live in the USA! (ID Guide).Today, you’re going to learn about the 16 types of kingsnakes and milksnakes in the United States!

For example, did you know that kingsnakes EAT venomous snakes? Believe it or not, it’s true! Regardless, these non-venomous, mostly docile snakes are fascinating. So while it’s not unheard of, it’s not very common to just stroll past one while walking outside. Most members of the genus Lampropeltis (kingsnakes & milksnakes) spend a lot of their time hidden beneath objects or underground. Finding kingsnakes and milksnakes in the United States can be difficult!
