| Scientific classification | ||||||||||||||
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| Binomial name | ||||||||||||||
| Lampropeltis gentulus californiae |
The California King Snake (Lampropeltis gentulus californiae) is a species of non-venomous king snake native to Western North America, particuarily Arizona and California. The snake is dark (black or brown) with creamy white crossbands. They grow to a length of up to 4 feet and weigh as much as 4 lb. There is a variation of the California King Snake that is found in San Diego that has stripes instead of bands.
The diet of the California King Snake is similar to that of other King snakes. Prey items include lizards, birds, and other snakes.