Facts about Scarlet Kingsnakes
The Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis triangulum elapsoides) is a type of king snake that is found in the Eastern portion of the United States, particularly Florida. The Scarlet Kingsnake is a subspecies of the milk snake Lampropeltis triangulum. They are found in pinelands, hardwood hammocks, prairies, cultivated fields, and suburban areas. The Scarlet Kingsnake is significantly smaller than some of the other king snakes, usually well under 20 inches long. The maximum recorded length was 68.5cm (27 inches). Juvenile specimens of this Scarlet Kingsnake usually have the same colours as adults, but often have rings that look more "off white" than yellow. As they become mature, their rings turn more yellow. Their average weight is 1270 g (2.77 lb). Neonates (newborns) can be as small as 3 and a half inches. The Scarlet Kingsnake has a tri-color pattern of black, red, and yellow bands that mimic the venomous coral snake. A method to help differentiate between venomous and non venomous tri-color snakes in North America is found in the popular phrases "red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black venom lack" or "If red touches yellow, you're a dead fellow; if red touches black, you're alright, Jack" and "Red and black is a friend of Jack". Scarlet kingsnakes spend a lot of their time hiding under cover. Loose bark on rotting pine trees is a favorite place for them to hide. It is in these places that they find a steady supply of one of their favorite foods, skinks. |
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