King Snake (Lampropeltis spp.)
Natural Habitat
- Found throughout North and Central America in diverse environments such as deserts and forests.
- Known for being active and easy to handle, making them a popular pet choice.
Housing Requirements
- Enclosure Size: 20-30 gallons for juveniles; larger enclosures for adults.
- Substrate: Aspen, coconut husk, or paper towels.
- Hides: Provide multiple hiding spots to reduce stress.
Temperature & Humidity
- Basking Spot: 85-90°F (29-32°C)
- Ambient Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- Humidity: 40-60%; increase slightly during shedding.
Diet & Feeding
- Diet: Mice and rats.
- Feeding Frequency:
- Juveniles: Every 5-7 days
- Adults: Every 7-10 days
- Tips: Feed only appropriately sized prey to prevent choking or regurgitation.
Common Health Issues
- Regurgitation: Can result from overfeeding or stress.
- Mites: Treat infestations with reptile-safe products.
- Respiratory Issues: Caused by inadequate enclosure conditions.
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