Identification
The adult Black Kingsnake is predominately black with traces of white or yellow spots on its sides. The area around the mouth is white to yellow and the belly is yellowish with dark mottling. The young have a light striped pattern with spots around the mouth area. The Black Kingsnake is about 35 to 45 inches long. Similar species include: Black Rat Snake, Racer.
Distribution and Status
The Black Kingsnake can be found in southwest Indiana and in the Wabash Valley area. The species is considered common within Indiana.
Ecology
Black Kingsnakes are frequently found in cleared areas that are overgrown, such as fields, clearings, or abandoned areas. When threatened, the Black Kingsnake will attack and make loud hissing noises to ward off a threat. It preys on small mammals, making it important in controlling rodent populations. Kingsnakes, especially the Black Kingsnake, prey on other snakes as well, including venomous species. Immune to their venom, they are able to survive bites from copperheads, cottonmouths and rattlesnakes.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499