Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Common kingsnake

Scientific name: Lampropeltis getula


Common kingsnake

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: COLUBRIDAE

Group: Reptiles

Shyness: Tolerant

Safe distance: 3 m

Breeding season / Courtship: N/A

Gestation: 60–75 jours

Births: N/A


Habitat:
forests, grasslands, rocky areas

Description:
The Lampropeltis getula, commonly known as the common kingsnake, is a non-venomous snake native to North America. It is renowned for its ability to resist the venom of other snakes, allowing it to hunt and consume them. This snake exhibits a varied coloration, often black with white or yellow bands. It can reach a length of 1.2 to 1.8 meters. The kingsnake is an opportunistic predator that feeds on rodents, birds, lizards, and other snakes. It is generally active at night and prefers habitats such as forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. Although often captured for the pet trade, it remains abundant in the wild.

Recommended lens:
>=Macro

Photography tips:
To photograph the kingsnake, it is advisable to use a macro lens to capture the details of its skin and distinctive patterns. Approach slowly and maintain a safe distance of at least 3 meters to avoid disturbing it. Opt for twilight or nighttime hours, as this is when it is most active. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images, especially in low-light conditions.

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