With its vibrant red, black, and yellow markings and striking scaly pattern, the scarlet kingsnake draws attention wherever it goes. It’s often mistaken for a coral snake due to its striking coloration, but unlike coral snakes, scarlet kingsnakes are nonvenomous and entirely harmless. What do you need to know about keeping a scarlet kingsnake as a pet? 

Scarlet kingsnakes grow to a length of between 3 feet (0.9 m) to 4 feet (1.22 m). They are found in dry, open woodlands and fields with enough vegetation to provide shelter. These snakes are most active at night and spend much of their day hiding in logs, rocks, and piles of vegetation.

These jewel-like snakes have several unique adaptations that help them survive and thrive in their environment. This article is a complete guide to everything you need to know about scarlet kingsnakes.

General Information About scarlet kingsnakes

Scarlet kingsnakes (Lampropeltis triangulum) are a small species of colubrid from the Colubridae family. The genus Lampropeltis means “shiny shield” and refers to this snake’s scales. 

This snake species is native to the southeastern United States, from Florida to North Carolina and westward into Alabama and Mississippi. They live in various habitats, including: 

• Deciduous forests 
• Grassland
• Pine savannas 

Appearance and Morphs

Scarlet kingsnakes are known for their striking coloration, which consists of alternating red, black and yellow bands. The number of bands on a scarlet kingsnake can range from two to five, but most have three. 

The red bands are usually the widest, and the yellow bands are typically the thinnest. Juveniles are normally lighter in color than adults but retain the characteristic black, red and yellow patterning.

Scarlet kingsnakes have small heads with pointed noses, and their eyes are relatively small compared to the rest of their head. They also have long, cylindrical bodies with smooth scales and tails that taper to a point. 

They come in various morphs, including the following:

• Albino: This morph is characterized by its distinctive pale pink or orange coloration with dark blotches along its back. It lacks any red pigment and is primarily cream-colored or yellowish in color.
• Reverse dotted: This morph has the classic black, red and yellow patterning but with a unique twist—the black bands are dotted with yellow.
• Snow: The snow morph is a rare variation of the standard pattern and has less black pigment, resulting in a white and yellow pattern with barely visible red bands.
• Amelistic: In this morph, the snake’s coloration is a unique yellow-orange and lacks any red pigment.

Size

Scarlet kingsnakes grow to an average length of 3 feet (0.91 m), with a maximum size of 4 feet (1.22 m). They’re a relatively small species compared to other snakes, and their size makes them much easier to identify in the wild. The females are usually slightly larger than the males.

Lifespan

Scarlet kingsnakes can live up to 22 years in captivity, as long as you provide them with optimal enclosure conditions and suitable food. However, their lifespan in the wild is much shorter due to predation and food availability. The average lifespan of a wild scarlet kingsnake is 10-15 years. 

How To Care for a Scarlet Kingsnake

To ensure your scarlet kingsnake is healthy, you should provide them with the appropriate care. Here’s how to care for them: 

Diet and Water

Scarlet kingsnakes are carnivorous and feed mainly on small lizards, frogs, insects, and other snakes. However, they may also eat small rodents and birds. They use their strong sense of smell to locate prey when hunting and kill them by constriction, squeezing them until they die. 

You should feed your pet scarlet kingsnake a diet of dead rodents and insects. Mice are the most common food source for these snakes, and you should feed them every 5-7 days. 

Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and wax worms can also be offered occasionally. However, remember that these snakes shouldn’t be overfed, which can lead to obesity and other health issues.

Always provide your scarlet kingsnake with a shallow bowl of fresh water in its enclosure, and change it daily or as needed. The bowl should be large enough for your snake to soak in and not too heavy, or your scarlet kingsnake may tip it over.

Enclosure and Housing

An enclosure is the best way to keep your scarlet kingsnake safe and secure. It should be at least twice as long as the snake and taller. The enclosure should provide a place for your scarlet kingsnake to hide, such as a cave or another dark spot. 

It should also have plenty of ventilation to keep the air circulating and fresh. The temperature range should be between 77-88°F (25-31°C).

The terrarium should also have a temperature gradient, with one side slightly cooler than the other. This will allow your snake to choose its preferred temperature. In addition, you should include a basking spot with a maximum temperature of 90°F (32°C).

Scarlet kingsnakes enjoy hiding, so you should provide plenty of cover and hiding places in the enclosure. Branches, cork bark, and rocks can make it feel secure. 

The ideal enclosure size is between 10 and 20 gallons (38-76 liters) with a secure lid. 

The terrarium should have a substrate at least 2-3 inches (5.0-7.6 cm) deep. Aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or coconut husk are perfect substrates for scarlet kingsnakes but be careful not to overcrowd the enclosure, as this can stress your snake and make it more likely to bite. 

Heating

To keep your scarlet kingsnake healthy and content, a temperature gradient of between 77-88°F (25-31°C) should be maintained. Heat lamps, ceramic heaters, and under-tank heating pads are all suitable heating methods.

Heat mats or rocks should be avoided as they can quickly become too hot, leading to burns or other health problems. Also, be careful not to place your scarlet kingsnake’s enclosure where it will be exposed to direct sunlight or drafts. A thermostat can help you to monitor the temperature and ensure it remains within the ideal range.

Lighting

In addition to suitable heating, scarlet kingsnakes also need a UVB light source. This helps synthesize vitamin D3, allowing their bodies to absorb calcium from their diet efficiently.

Consider using a full-spectrum light that emits light in the UVA and UVB spectrum at a distance of no more than 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) away from the snake, and keep it on for  10-12 hours daily and turn it off at night. 

A 5% or 10% UVB light is sufficient for most kingsnakes but remember to replace the bulb every 6 months or as often as the manufacturer recommends.

Humidity

The humidity in a scarlet kingsnake’s enclosure should stay between 50-60%. These snakes prefer a moderate humidity level that isn’t too high or low. Maintaining the correct humidity requires regular misting with a spray bottle, especially if your home has low humidity levels. 

Shedding

The shedding process for scarlet kingsnakes is known as ecdysis, and happens when they remove their outer skin from the old one. It’s a normal part of life for any snake, and it happens several times a year. 

You’ll know your scarlet kingsnake is ready to shed when you see a milky, blue-ish hue to their eyes. During this time, provide your snake with plenty of moisture and hiding spots in boxes, logs, and rocks.

If the humidity level isn’t right, it can take several weeks for your snake to shed its old skin successfully. Once your snake has finished shedding, you’ll notice a new layer of skin with brighter colors. 

You may also see their eyes becoming more vibrant, and their scales may become slightly tougher. This is normal, and it’s a sign of a healthy scarlet kingsnake.

Hibernation

During the cooler months, scarlet kingsnakes hibernate in underground burrows or other refuges. These can be tunnels dug by other animals, crevices in rocks, abandoned animal burrows, or hollow logs. 

Sometimes, scarlet kingsnakes may gather together and hibernate communally. Hibernation is essential, as it helps them conserve energy and survive the colder winter months. 

During hibernation, your snake’s metabolism will slow down, and it will remain inactive for several months. They emerge in the spring when temperatures rise and feed on whatever prey is available. 

In captivity, scarlet kingsnakes hibernate in an enclosure with a cool temperature and sufficient ventilation. 

Health Issues

Scarlet kingsnakes are generally hardy creatures, but they can be susceptible to various illnesses. Common health issues in scarlet kingsnakes include: 

• Malnutrition 
• Mites 
• Parasitic infections
• Respiratory issues 

Poor nutrition, incorrect temperatures, or a dirty enclosure can all lead to health issues. Signs of illness may include:

• Appetite loss
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Lethargy 
• Shedding difficulties 

Scarlet Kingsnake Behavior and Temperament

The scarlet kingsnake is a relatively docile snake that rarely bites. When threatened, it may coil and strike out or hiss loudly. These snakes are fossorial, spend much of their time underground, and are rarely found in the open. 

Scarlet kingsnakes are known to be very secretive and reclusive, making them difficult to observe in the wild. They’re aggressive hunters and will eat anything they can overpower. 

As nocturnal creatures, they hunt at night and retreat to hiding spots during the day. 

When housed alone, scarlet kingsnakes aren’t social and don’t need human interaction. They love climbing and exploring, and a terrarium with plenty of rocks, branches, and other hiding spots should be provided. 

Unfortunately, scarlet kingsnakes are escape artists and may climb out of their terrarium if it isn’t properly secured. They can tolerate higher temperatures than many other species, making them a great pet if you live in a warmer climate. 

Handling Scarlet Kingsnakes

When first adopted, scarlet kingsnakes should be left alone for several weeks to acclimate to their new environment. After they’ve settled in, you can gradually start handling them. They aren’t known for biting and are generally quite docile when picked up. 

Always wash your hands before and after handling your snake, as this will help prevent the spreading of disease. Always support its entire body, including the head and tail, and never pick up a snake by the tail, as this can cause injury or even death. Allow your snake to move freely, and never force them into a certain position.

How To Pick Up a Scarlet Kingsnake

Picking up a scarlet kingsnake requires preparation and caution:

• Have the right equipment, such as a pair of heavy-duty gloves and a secure container. 
• Ensure your snake isn’t in an enclosed space, as it could easily become stressed out. 
• When you’re ready, slowly approach the snake and grab it behind its head. 
• Ensure you have a secure grip and don’t squeeze too hard, as this could injure it. 
• Let the snake coil around your arm and place it in the container.

Scarlet kingsnakes aren’t aggressive and usually don’t bite, but you should use caution when handling them. If you get bitten, wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can You Train Scarlet Kingsnakes?

You can train your scarlet kingsnake, but they aren’t likely to respond to any commands. Snakes are very primitive and don’t have the same intelligence level as other domestic pets. 

Training them is more about creating positive associations and teaching them that being handled is safe and not something to be feared.

How Much Do They Cost?

Depending on the size and morph, they cost between $50 and $400. Captive-bred specimens tend to be more expensive than wild-caught snakes. The price also varies depending on the breeder and their location. 

Are They Poisonous?

Scarlet kingsnakes aren’t venomous and won’t cause harm if they bite. They have small, sharp teeth that can break the skin if handled roughly, but the bite isn’t dangerous. Wash any wounds that result from a bite with soap and water. 

Final Thoughts

Scarlet kingsnakes make excellent pets for both novice and experienced keepers. They are hardy, docile animals that require minimal maintenance. Provide a secure enclosure and proper diet, and you’ll have a beautiful snake that will bring years of enjoyment.