California king snake

snake

Also known as: Lampropeltis getula californiae

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

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The California king snake, a subspecies of the common king snake (Lampropeltis getula californiae), is a nonvenomous constrictor found in North America. These snakes typically grow to between 1 and 1.5 meters (3.3 to 5 feet) in length, though some can reach up to 2.1 meters (6.8 feet). They are known for their varied patterns, which can include rings, stripes, or spots, and are immune to the venom of the snakes they prey upon, such as rattlesnakes and copperheads. Their diet is diverse, including small mammals, birds, lizards, amphibians, and other snakes. King snakes belong to the family Colubridae.1

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king snake
The California king snake (L. getula californiae) exhibits two pattern types, the common ringed pattern and a rarer striped form; both patterns can appear from a single clutch of eggs. King snakes derive their common name from the common king snake’s habit of feeding upon other…
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The California king snake (L. getula californiae) exhibits two pattern types, the common ringed pattern and a rarer striped form; both patterns can appear from a single clutch of eggs. King snakes derive their common name from the common king snake’s habit of feeding upon other…
Read More