Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was told ages ago and have read many times since then that Pueblan Milksnakes and California Kingsnakes do not require UV lighting because they are nocturnal and would rarely encounter UV light in the wild. I'm considering purchasing a Mexican Black Kingsnake which is also mostly nocturnal. A care sheet I found online claims this species requires full spectrum uv lighting. Another care sheet claims they have no special lighting requirement. I'm inclined to agree with the latter and stick with the under tank heating system I've been using with my other snakes but just to be safe, is there any merit to the first care sheet's claim?

Don't believe everything you read online! As far as I know, no snakes require UVB lighting in order to survive in captivity. There have been some reports that UVB may provide certain psychological benefits and even breeding cues to captive snakes, but they have not, to my knowledge, been substantiated.

Many folks, myself included, keep their MBKs without additional lighting successfully. I wouldn't worry about it.

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Diego

yeah, I don't trust most of what I read on personal websites. I do trust most of you guys though which is why I posted. Thanks. kb

Hello--
Although this species doesn't require special lighting, mine appreciates a basking lamp with a stone that becomes warm beneath it --especially after he eats. This setup seems to keep him more social. He is a clasroom snake, and spends a lot of time around or on his stone where the kids can see him.

rgds,
althea