ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Eastern Black Kingsnake

 Eastern Black Kingsnake

eastern black kingsnake
The eastern black kingsnake is one of many subspecies of the common kingsnake. Other subspecies come in a variety of colors.

Eastern Black Kingsnake
Lampropeltis getula nigra

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: May-August

• Gestation: 47-81 days

• Number of offspring: 2-24

• Typical foods: small mammals, lizards, birds, and small snakes (including venomous species)

• Length: 36-45 inches

• Ohio Status: Species of Concern 

Description
The eastern black kingsnake is solid black in color. The scales are smooth and shiny.

Habitat and Habits
This handsomely marked constrictor is limited in Ohio to Adams, Scioto, Jackson, and Lawrence counties, and even in this area it is relatively uncommon. It shows a marked preference for the Scioto and Ohio River bottomlands. Except in early spring and fall, when they bask in the open, these snakes are very secretive, spending the day beneath logs, rocks, and the like, and emerging to hunt by night.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Eastern black kingsnakes are egg layers. When hatched, the young are usually 8 to 13 inches in length. They become sexually mature at about three or four years of age.