Are Mexican Black Kingsnakes and Cali. Kingsnakes the same?
Hi - Sorry if this question has been answered already. I'm relatively new to reptiles, but I've always wanted a snake. (I'm not getting one any time soon though.) I was thinking of my first being a Cali. Kingsnake, but I really love the color of the MB Kingsnake. Is that snake and the Cali. essentially the same since they're both kingsnakes? I've done some research on the California Kingsnake to know about how it is for beginners. Not everything, but enough to get the gist I think.
Thank you :oops:
Re: Are Mexican Black Kingsnakes and Cali. Kingsnakes the same?
They are similar in their scientific classifications to a point but have varying geographical locations. i don't even think there are intergrade zones for the two subspecies. The Mexican black king would probably be more apt to intergrade with the Arizona mountain king.
Re: Are Mexican Black Kingsnakes and Cali. Kingsnakes the same?
MBK's and California Kings both Fall under Lampropeltis Getula. I believe the classification breaks up at sub-species. Mexican black kings fall under Nigrita and Cal Kings under Californiae. Both are amazing species with aggressive feeding responses and relative ease of care. The feeding response can be a little alarming for novice keepers but so long as you take care to pay attention to when the animal is in feed mode bites can be avoided. Colubridae with heavy feeding responses do best in regards to handling when they are well fed but temperament will also vary from one specimen to the next. Every now and again you end up with a defensive animal. Hope that helps.
Are Mexican Black Kingsnakes and Cali. Kingsnakes the same?
