Mexican Black Kingsnake

Mexican Black Kingsnakes (Lampropeltis getula nigrita) are believed to be a subspecies of the Common Kingsnake. They are a member of the colubrid family and are non-venomous. They are sometimes called the black kingsnake. MBKs are even immune to snake venom.

Origin: -parts of Arizona and California, most of Mexico, and northwestern Sinaloa

Size: -On average, MBK will reach 90 to 120 cm (3 to 4 ft.). Some individuals have been
recorded at lengths of 5 ft.

Diet: -Carnivorous
-Mexican Black Kingsnakes are opportunistic hunters. They readily feed on rodents,
small mammals, birds, eggs, lizards, snakes (including venomous species).

Behavior: -Crepuscular, mostly active during the day but also active at night.
-Like other species of kingsnakes, MBKs will cannibalize smaller individuals.
-Mexican Black Kingsnakes will emit a foul substance known as "musk". This is to deter
threats.
-Brumates during the winter months.

Reproduction: -Breeding season takes place in the Spring, typically March through June.
-When prey is scarce, they can opt to not reproduce that season.
-Females will lay 6 to 12 eggs per clutch. Dependent on size, they can lay up to 24 eggs.
-The incubation period is 65 to 80 days.
-Hatchlings are 9 to 13 inches long and are 100% on their own.

Lifespan: -On average, they live 20 to 30 years.