Mexican Black Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula nigrita )

Common Name: Mexican Black Kingsnake
Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula nigrita
Source: CB25

Adult Size: Typically 90-120 cm
Native Range: Western Mexico (Sonora and Sinaloa regions)

Enclosure: Secure, well-ventilated vivarium; minimum 120 × 45 × 45 cm for adultsHeating: Warm end 30-32 °C / Cool end 22-24 °C / Night drop 18-20 °C

Humidity: Moderate 40-60 % with good airflow; provide a humid hide during shedding

UVB: low output UVB

Diet: Appropriately sized rodents; juveniles every 5-7 days, adults every 7-10 days

Water: Fresh water available at all times

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

The Mexican Black Kingsnake is a naturally occurring dark phase of the common kingsnake complex from western Mexico. As adults they develop a rich, glossy black appearance, often retaining faint speckling that becomes less visible with age. Hatchlings and juveniles may show more noticeable patterning before darkening over time.

In the wild, this taxon occupies semi-arid scrub, rocky hillsides and agricultural margins, sheltering under debris and within burrows. Like other kingsnakes, it is an active forager with a strong feeding response and a reputation for hardiness in captivity. Its manageable adult size and straightforward environmental needs make it a long-established and reliable species within UK collections.