How do kingsnakes and milksnakes differ?

Kingsnakes and milksnakes are some of the most beautiful snakes in the world and are very popular and easily kept in captivity. ... read more

They are both species of Lampropeltis, king snake is L. elapsoides known for red, white and black banding and milk snake is L.triangulum known for both red, yellow and black banding, and red, white and black banding. They both have many subspecies because different appearances. Sometimes the entire genus of Lampropeltis is referred to as king snakes. read more

The scientific name for the genus of kingsnakes and milksnakes is Lampropeltis. Lampro is derived from the Greek word for "shiny" and peltis, Greek for "shields." The name is a very accurate descriptor of these snakes with their glossy, smooth, well-defined scales. read more

Snakes are a common food item, and they have the ability to eat larger snakes, with some eating even rattlesnakes as a staple in their diet. Both king and milk snakes will try to eat cage mates, so should be housed on their own. The basic care for king snakes and milk snakes is the same for most species and subspecies. read more