The California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) is a non-venomous snake that feeds on a wide variety of animals, from small mammals and birds to amphibians and other snakes. It is found in all habitats and regions of California and Baja California, Mexico, many islands in the Gulf of California, as well as Santa Catalina Island and Isla Santa Margarita in the Pacific Ocean.

The California Kingsnake is well camouflaged with its black and white banded body and is mostly active in warmer weather during the day or at night when daytime temperatures are too high.

Learn more about the California Kingsnake at theNAT’s Amphibian and Reptile Atlas of Peninsular California.

PHOTO CREDIT: Pierre Fidenci