The high white California kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae) is a subspecies of the California king snake, which belongs to the colubrid family of snakes. They are found in the western parts of North America and can be identified by their distinctive patterning and high-contrast coloration. The high-white California kingsnake typically has black or dark brown stripes along its back with light grey in between. Its underside is usually yellowish or cream-colored with occasional pinkish patches. These snakes can grow up to four feet in length, though some individuals may reach lengths up to six feet!
What Make A High White California Kingsnake?
High white California kingsnakes are known for their high contrast coloration and patterning, which is unique amongst colubrid snakes. This high contrast pattern of black or dark brown stripes along the back and light grey in-between is caused by a genetic mutation known as ‘albinism’. Albino high whites have an extra gene that causes reduced melanin production, resulting in lighter skin pigmentation.
Appearance
Though high white California kingsnakes can vary in size, they are usually between two and four feet long. They have slender bodies with smooth scales, and their coloration is most often black or dark brown with light grey stripes running along the length of their bodies. Their bellies are usually yellowish or cream-colored with occasional pinkish patches.
Lifespan
The high white California kingsnake can live up to 20 years in captivity, and some even survive for longer. In the wild, however, their lifespan is shorter due to a variety of environmental factors.
Habitat
High white California kingsnakes live in a variety of habitats including deserts, chaparral, grassland, and montane woodlands. They range from Southern Oregon to Baja California Mexico as well as parts of Arizona and New Mexico. These snakes prefer warm climates that provide plenty of cover such as rocks and vegetation for them to hide in.
Diet
High-white California kingsnakes are carnivorous and feed on a wide variety of prey including lizards, rodents, birds, eggs, and even other snakes! They have strong constricting muscles that allow them to tightly grip prey while they suffocate their victims.
Behavior
High-white California kingsnakes are usually found alone or in pairs during the day. At night, however, they may be seen in groups as they hunt for food. These snakes will often bask in the sun during cooler days to help regulate their body temperature. In addition, high white California kingsnakes are known to be quite docile and rarely bite unless provoked.
Temperament
High-white California kingsnakes are generally calm and docile snakes. They rarely bite or attempt to escape when handled, but they may become stressed if over-handled or startled. It is important to provide high white California kingsnakes with plenty of hiding spots and objects for climbing in order to help them feel secure.
Reproduction
High white California kingsnakes are ovoviviparous, meaning that the eggs remain in their mother’s body until they hatch. Females will usually give birth to between two and twelve baby snakes per litter. The young snakes will be independent right away and are ready to hunt on their own. They reach sexual maturity at around three years of age.
Care
High white California kingsnakes are relatively easy to care for in captivity provided they have access to a warm environment and adequate space. They should be fed rodents such as mice or rats once or twice a week, and their habitats should be kept clean and well-ventilated. In addition, high white California kingsnakes need regular physical activity to keep them healthy, so providing them with plenty of hiding spots and objects for climbing is important. Careful handling is also necessary since these snakes may become stressed if handled too much. With the proper care, high white California kingsnakes can make wonderful pets!
Temperature
High white California kingsnakes prefer a hot environment and require high temperatures to ensure their health. During the day, these snakes need a temperature of around 88°F (31°C). At night, the temperature should not fall below 85°F (29°C). It is important to provide high white California kingsnakes with adequate heating sources such as lights or heat mats in order to maintain the required temperatures.
Humidity
High white California kingsnakes require high humidity levels ranging between 70 and 80 percent. It is important to monitor the humidity in their habitats and use a hygrometer to measure it if necessary. Misting the enclosure with water can help increase the humidity levels, while air circulation can be improved by using fans or opening windows to help keep the air dry.
Do High White California Kingsnake Bite?
High white California kingsnakes rarely bite and are usually quite docile. They may, however, become stressed if overhandled or startled and may then attempt to bite in self-defense. It is important to handle high white California kingsnakes carefully and respect their space in order to avoid any potential bites.
Can High White California Kingsnake Be Good Pets?
High white California kingsnakes can make excellent pets with the proper care. They are generally docile and rarely bite, they require high temperatures and high humidity levels to remain healthy, and they do not require a lot of space or special equipment. With patience, high white California kingsnakes can become friends and even seek out human attention. They are a great choice for beginner reptile keepers!
Is High White California Kingsnake Rare?
High-white California kingsnakes are not considered a rare breed; however, high-white morphs of the species can be more difficult to find. But with time and patience, high white California kingsnakes can be easily found by reputable reptile breeders or pet shops that specialize in reptiles.
Conclusion
High-white California kingsnakes are an interesting and easy-to-care-for reptile. They require high temperatures and high humidity levels to remain healthy, and they do not require a lot of space or special equipment. With patience, high white California kingsnakes can become friends and even seek out human attention. These snakes make excellent pets for both beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike!
