Kenneth L. Krysko photo.

Scientific name: Lampropeltis getula floridana

Description: Average adult size is 36-48 inches (91.4-121.9 cm), record is 69.5 inches (176.5 cm). Adults are variable in coloration from brown to dull yellow. They have more than 40 yellowish dorsal crossbands and a degenerate lateral chain-like pattern. The scales between the crossbands lighten with age, starting as black, they may develop to be the same light color as the crossbands. The belly has a checkerboard pattern. The scales are smooth, and there are usually 23 dorsal scale rows at midbody (some individuals have 21). The pupil is round. Juveniles are distinctly crossbanded and most of the scales between the crossbands are black.

Florida kingsnake. Left to right: Top of the head (notice the large plate-like scales on the top of the head); underside of the head (chin and throat).

Florida kingsnake. Left to right: Side of the head; front (face view) of the head.

Range: In Florida, it is found throughout the peninsula from Volusia Co. south to the tip of Florida, excluding the keys. It intergrades (interbreeds) with the eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula getula) from Nassau Co. in the northern peninsula south to Pinellas Co. in the central peninsula. It is not found outside of Florida.

Habitat: Uncommon, it is found in pinelands, hardwood hammocks, cypress strands, prairies, marshes, estuaries, sugar cane plantations, and stands of melaleuca (Australian punk trees).

Comments: , and seldom bites. The Florida kingsnake is mainly terrestrial and active during the day, yet in the summer months individuals may be found moving at night.

It feeds on other snakes, lizards, frogs, rodents, and birds and their eggs. It eats venomous snakes such as rattlesnakes, and is immune to their venom. It is even known to be cannibalistic, eating its own kind.

It lays eggs. It is primarily active from February-May, when breeding takes place. In the early summer, 3-30 eggs are laid. Newborns from 5-8 inches (12.7-20.3 cm) hatch in late summer.

Comparison with other species: The eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula getula) has fewer than 32 light crossbands on the body, no lightening of the black interband scales, a lateral chain-like pattern, and usually 21 dorsal scale rows at midbody.

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