EASTERN KINGSNAKE

(Lampropeltis Getula)

Size: 3′

Holding Permitted.

Adult specimens of the speckled kingsnake, L. g. holbrooki, are the smallest race at 91.5 cm (36.0 in) in snout-to-vent length (SVL) on average, while the nominate race, L. g. getula, is the largest at 107 cm (42 in) SVL on average.[6] Specimens up to 208.2 cm (82.0 in) in total length (including tail) have been recorded. Weight can vary from 285 g (10.1 oz) in a small specimen of 87.2 cm (34.3 in) in total length, to 2,268 g (80.0 oz) in large specimens, of over 153 cm (60 in) in total length.

The color pattern consists of a glossy black, blue-black, or dark brown ground color, overlaid with a series of 23-52 white chain-like rings. King snakes from the coastal plain have wider bands, while those found in mountainous areas have thinner bands or may be completely black.