Prairie Kingsnake
Family:
Colubridae (nonvenomous snakes) in the order Squamata (lizards and snakes)
Description:
This is a fairly common snake over most of the state. Overall color is tan, brownish-gray or greenish-gray. Numerous dark blotches down the back and sides are brown, reddish or greenish-brown. The belly is yellowish-tan covered by blocky, brown markings. Young or newly hatched prairie kingsnakes often are confused with the venomous copperhead. Kingsnakes have round markings on their back while copperheads have hourglass-shaped markings.
Size:
Length averages from 30 to 42 inches (76-107 cm).
Habitat and conservation:
The prairie kingsnake lives in prairies and open woods, as well as rocky, wooded hillsides.
Foods:
Kingsnakes are known for their ability to eat other snakes including venomous species and are immune to the venom of copperheads, cottonmouths and rattlesnakes. Other foods include lizards, small rodents and, occasionally, birds. Kingsnakes kill their prey by constriction.
Distribution in Missouri:
Statewide.
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Shortened URL
http://mdc.mo.gov/node/6564
