This makes for real good discussion John. The Lampropeltis getula complex is a particularly interesting subject due to its transcontinental distribution and the variety of forms that exist across this range. I'm not certain how I feel as to whether this represents sympatric speciation or not. Most of my kingsnake observations are with L.g.nigra here in KY so I can only speculate on what might be going on in other parts of the kingsnakes range. Here, these snakes are widespread and probably very little genetic separation occurs. There are tendencies for kings from certain habitat types to share distinctive characteristics, but even this is somewhat plastic and nothing is set in stone. I have on rare occasions for example observed heavily banded nigra from upland habitats in east KY. What selective pressures play a role in whether a pop will tend to be patterned or not I can only speculate on.



I also find it interesting how the field guides lay out ranges of subspecies and intergrade zones. I have the impression that many people often accept these range maps without question as if they were gospel. I believe the reality is much different however and not nearly as black and white as many would assume. I certainly appreciate these maps and the field guides themselves and all the research that went into them, but I look at them as only guides and not absolutes truths.



Phil

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