>>Thank you both for your replies. Now I know! Do you think that this is somewhat preventable by only pairing them one time?

The trigger is usually food. If the female is fed heavy after her first clutch, it triggers her body to lay a second clutch. If you don't pair them again, she will lay mostly duds, usually. There are exceptions. Sometimes a female can re-absorbe a clutch if it has not been fertilized. Even a first clutch for that matter.
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Disclaimer: I do keep several snakes in pairs, and some in groups. However I realize that things can go wrong, and I have to keep a close eye on those groups, to be sure they are not being adversely affected by these living conditions. Also if one happens to eat it's cagemate, it is 100% my fault, and I know the risks in advance!

What's wrong with using CAUTION?!?!?!
King Snakes! Who can make a better mouse trap?
~ Jorge Sierra www.SierraSnakes.com

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