The California kingsnake rewards its loyal subjects well.
It is not difficult to understand why the California kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae), a subspecies of the common kingsnake, is so popular. Adults reach up to only 4 feet in length. They adapt well to captivity, possess a calm temperament and display a large variety of patterns for hobbyists to enjoy. They also reproduce readily, which has helped make them affordable to most reptile enthusiasts. Cared for properly, they can live between 10 and 15 years.
Want to read the full story? Pick up the April 2009 issue of REPTILES, or subscribe to get 12 months of articles just like this.