Hello! I saw this 2 year old California kingsnake and I just fell in love with him and had to buy him. He was an owner surrender but seemed very well tame and friendly. He has chocolate brown stripes on white.

Question 1: I have his heating set at about 83-84 F, as suggested by other caresheets. This forum dated on 2010 suggested 88-95 I think. Other sites suggested no higher than 80. Which is the correct temp? He is in a tub with a UTH and thermostat.

Question 2: the reptile store was feeding him f/t rat pinkies. That is the size they recommend. I think that is too small for him but I am thinking from a BP perspective... Kingsnakes do have smaller heads. What is the right size to feed?

Question 3: I saw a baby black and white California Kingsnake. The staff says they all will grow up with chocolate brown coloring and the black will fade. Is that true?

Question 4: I plan to keep him in a tub. I currently have him in a 32 qt temporarily. At what size tub is best for these snakes?