Gray-Banded King Snake

Scientific name: Lampropeltis alterna is a nocturnal snake that is considered threatened in the state of New Mexico and also exists in many coloration morphs. Though they prefer to roam after dark they can occasionally be seen during the daytime after a thunderstorm. Coloration ranges from orange/red bands and gray bands separated by black stripes to a purely gray snake with several black markings. The gray version of the snake is rare.

Prior to breeding the snake must remain dormant for 10-12 weeks. The female snake will lay anywhere between 4 and 13 eggs about one month after breeding. Hatchlings typically measure in at around 9 ½ inches in length. Adult Gray-banded king snakes can measure anywhere from 28 to 36 inches in length.