Caring for Florida king Snake

Written By Christopher Enders

Florida Kingsnake

Lampropeltis getula floridana

Basic Information:
The Florida Kingsnake is a hardy and adaptable colubrid native to the southeastern United States, particularly the state of Florida. Known for their bold patterns—ranging from banded to speckled morphs—these snakes are highly variable in appearance and widely appreciated in the reptile hobby. Adults typically reach 3–4.5 feet in length and have a slender but strong build. Florida Kingsnakes are diurnal to crepuscular and are active hunters, often exploring their environment. They are also known for their natural resistance to venom and may prey on other snakes in the wild. Captive-bred individuals are typically very docile and make excellent pets for beginners and experienced keepers alike.

Lifespan:

15-20 years in captivity with proper care

Sexing:

Sexing is most accurately determined through probing or popping by an experienced keeper or veterinarian.

  • Females generally grow larger and heavier-bodied.

  • Males tend to stay slightly smaller and may have proportionally longer tails.

Enclosure:

  • Juveniles: 20 gallon enclosure (30” x 12” x 12”) with secure hides.

  • Adults: 36” x 18” x 18” enclosure or larger.

Provide hides on both the warm and cool sides, along with branches, cork bark, and enrichment items. Florida Kingsnakes are active and benefit from environmental complexity, including opportunities to climb and explore.

Substrate:

A moderately dry, easy-to-maintain substrate works well, such as:

• Aspen shavings
• Coconut fiber (kept on the drier side)
• Cypress mulch

These substrates allow for burrowing while maintaining a clean and healthy enclosure.

Lighting & Temperature:

  • Basking Spot: 88-90°F

  • Ambient Temperature: 78-82°F

  • Cool Side: 72-75°F

  • UVB Lighting: Not required, though low-level UVB (2.0–5.0) can be beneficial. Provide a 10–12 hour light cycle..

Heating should be controlled with a thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures.

Humidity:

  • Maintain 40-60% humidity

Florida Kingsnakes do not require high humidity, but a slight increase during shedding (such as a humid hide) can be beneficial.

Food:

Florida Kingsnakes are carnivorous and excellent feeders.

  • • Juveniles typically eat appropriately sized pinky or fuzzy mice every 5–7 days.
    • Adults usually eat mice or small rats every 7–10 days depending on size and metabolism.

Do not handle for at least 48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation. Because they are opportunistic feeders, avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

Water:

Provide a sturdy water bowl with fresh water available at all times. While they do not soak as frequently as tropical species, they may use the water dish occasionally, especially during sheds.

Florida Kingsnakes are one of the best all-around pet snakes due to their hardiness, manageable size, and typically calm temperament. Their strong feeding response and adaptability make them especially forgiving for new keepers, while their variety of patterns keeps them interesting for experienced hobbyists.

Is There a Local Pet Store Selling Florida Kingsnakes Near Me?

If you're in Adams County, Pennsylvania, visit Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick to check availability of Florida Kingsnakes and get expert advice on enclosure setup, feeding schedules, and care. Whether you're just getting started or adding to your collection, - there’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!

Christopher Enders
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