California Kingsnake - Calvin

As their name suggests these snakes are found in California, north to Oregon and southern Utah and to western Arizona. They are usually found in rocky outcrops, brushy semi-desert areas and brushy hillsides.

Some California Kingsnakes have lived to be 24 years old in captivity and grown to over 5 feet long!

As with all kingsnakes, California Kingsnakes eat other snakes, including venomous species. Although, partially immune to the venom of North American Crotalids (rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths) they do not seek them to the exclusion of other prey. But locals welcome the kingsnakes as they help maintain the number of Crotalids in the area. This ability to kill and eat venomous species makes it the “king” of all snakes, hence the name.

Like all snakes, kingsnakes can eat prey seven times the width of their own head meaning lizards, reptile eggs, birds and their eggs, mice, small rats and other small mammals are all on the menu.

Calvin arrived on 11th March 2001 and came to us from a private collection. He is 5 years old and enjoys basking under his lamp and coming out to meet his friends at handling sessions.

Fortunately California Kingsnakes are not endangered but like many species the illegal pet trade threatens their future, as does the loss of their natural habitat. With support like yours we can continue to give refuge to animals like Calvin and ensure their success in the future.