Anyone own an Arizona Mountain king?

Wondering if anyone here owns an Arizona Mountain king and if babies are indeed very picky eaters...Ive been told pinky mice sometimes are not accepted and anoles, skinks, or fence lizards must occasionally be offered. Anything else you can tell me?

Although I appreciate help, please respond only if you have experience with this species or Sonorans. There have been a few notorious users here as of late Ive noticed who simply respond to every post regardless of actual experience on the subject. Not trying to be insulting, but someone had to say it.

Much thanks,

Kevin

Hi Kevin,

I know you post is from late last year, but to answer your question all Mountain Kingsnakes (Sonoran, Arizona, California and Coast) are all picky eaters in captivity. I am no expert on Mountain kings, but I breed Grey Banded Kingsnakes and my dad used to breed Mountain kings. L. pyromelana, L. zonata, and L. multifasciata all prey on food that is small compared to other Kingsnakes and it's something they evolved to do since they live in cooler climates. Also, in the wild young primarily prey on "newborn" lizards as they hatch at a half of the size of common kingsnakes an usually can't readily take on a nest of mice.

If you are going to breed L. pyromelana I would recommend either finding a feeder lizard supplier who will sell you "newborn" lizards or you can do what I do with my Grey Banded Kingsnakes and keep western banded geckos or fence lizards on hand. I rub the pinkie heads on the live lizards belly and offer the scented pinky weekly. It's a waiting game but I haven't had one die on me yet.

If you have any other questions feel free to ask.

John

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