Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi all,

I am a neophyte ophiophile.
In simpler terms, I bought my first snake a week ago: a spendid Grey-banded Kingsnake (Lampropeltis alterna).

Most of my questions have been answered on the Internet.

However, I have been unable to find any information about the age at which this snake reaches its final size.

I do not even know whether it can be hibernated in captivity.
I live in a flat and have no way of keeping him for two months at 55°F.
and I wouldn't dare leave it on the balcony, because here in Paris the temperature changes are lately impressive (from one day to the next there are changes of 50°F.

I fed him a baby mouse, and he has been holed up in a hiding place in the terrarium for two days now.
Is it normal for the digestion of a very small animal to take so long ?

Thank you very much in advance for your answers.
Rani

Hi,
I think I can help a bit. My kings would grow to full adult size in 3-4 years.

As for the feeding, it is common for them to rest after eating and that's best. If they get handled too much or spooked, they could regurgitate the mouse. Especially young ones who don't know better. They know what's best for them and it's fine. Keep an eye on them for when it's time to shed. They shed more often when they are young and growing.

I've never tried to hibernate a king so I can't comment on this.

Hope I helped out some.

King