Eastern Kingsnake

Joyce watched this beautiful Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula getula) as it crossed the road onto our neighbor’s yard. The picture was taken from her iPhone. This Eastern Kingsnake is a constrictor that readily consumes lizards, rodents, and birds. They are also reported to be fond of turtle eggs. However, they are best known for eating other snakes. Because Kingsnakes are resistant to pit-viper venom,  they can attack and eat rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths with impunity.

The generic name Lampropeltis means “shiny shield” and refers to the smooth, shiny scales along the snake’s back.