Scarlet Kingsnake
(Lampropeltis
triangulum elapsoides) |
 |
DESCRIPTION: The adult averages 14-20
in. (36-51 cm) in length, with the longest specimen recorded at
27 inches. This snake is reddish with yellow and black bands
that completely encircle the body; every other band is black.
The snout is reddish. The scarlet kingsnake mimics the venomous
coral snake, but the scarlet kingsnake's snout is red and the
yellow rings are separated from the red by black. The female
lays 4-12 eggs in rotting wood and beneath rocks and logs in
early summer. They are creamy-white and slender and most of the
eggs adhere to one another. The eggs usually hatch in 2-2.5
months.
STATUS:
RANGE:
HABITAT: Often in or near woodland
habitats, especially pine. It also inhabits hillsides, wooded
areas, open fields, and stream and river floodplains. It often
winters in pine stumps.
SPECIAL HABITAT: This species is secretive,
and is adept at working its way beneath bark, logs, and other
hiding places. It is seldom seen in the open except at night or
after heavy rains.
FOOD: Food includes small snakes and
lizards, baby mice, small shrews, small birds and their eggs,
small fish, insects, and earthworms. |
