Description

The Black Kingsnake is a darker kingsnake species of the “getula” complex in Mississippi. They range in the extreme northeast corner of the state, though Mississippi likely represents a gradient of morphology and influence from the Speckled Kingsnake (Conant & Collins, 1998). They inhabit woodlands, grasslands, and sloped areas (Powell et al., 2016). They have been formerly considered a subspecies of the Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). This species primarily constricts and eats other snakes, such as copperheads and cottonmouths, but may cannibalize as well as eat rodents, frogs, or other small vertebrates. Considered consolidated (or lumped) as the only L. getula Complex kingsnake species east of the Mississippi River by recent genetic studies.

Identifying Traits

• Glossy black scales with reduced yellow or cream markings
• Juveniles may be semi-banded or speckled

Habitat

Woodlands, prairies, drainage swamps and wetlands

Behavior

Relatively secretive, but active during the day, and occasionally nocturnal in the warmer parts of the year. Usually active in morning and dusk.

Diet

Snakes, lizards, frogs, small mammals