Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm considering a gray-banded kingsnake for my next reptile. I just got my first snake, a Cal King, a month ago. I'm going to wait a while longer before getting another snake, but it's not too early to start gathering info. I really like the gray-banded king's colors.

How do they differ from Cal kings in terms of behavior? Are they just as docile, active, and easy to feed? Are they good snakes for beginners? Are most of them wild-caught?

Kim

You should click on the alterna page link to read all about them, and it has a ton of photos! I wouldn't say they are for beginners, but you CAN get some well started snakes from a recommended breeder that could very well be easier to feed than some cal kings I have owned!
-----
Todd Hughes

Kim,

Very few wild caught animals change hands, so you will be much more likely run into captive produced offspring. As for being a beginner snake that almost depends on the animal you end up with and is usually a feeding issue that makes or breaks that perception.

If you get one that is taking thawed mice or pinks you should be in good shape, but may need to hibernate them in the cooler time of the year if they go off feed. At worst you may end up with a problem feeder that will test the limits of your patience. Everything else tends to be very easy on a alterna, they are not known to be aggressive and need very little in the way of special attention once they are feeding well.

Lance
-----
___________________________
Herp Conservation Unlimited

Thank you for the information!
Kim