Northern Mole Kingsnake
-
Scientific Name:
Lampropeltis rhombomaculata Terrestrial
Native
Snakes
Nonvenomous
Description
A medium-large constricting snake - 16 to 50 inches long. Tan, brown, or gray above with a row of dark brown to reddish, oblong or dumbbell-shaped spots down the back and a smaller series on each side. Underside is whitish with brown spotting. Young snakes tend to be more pale and have more distinct spots than adults. Color pattern may be darkened and vague in some adults. Scales are smooth and in 21 to 27 rows.
Range and Habitat
Found in pinelands of the eastern Florida Parishes in open or semi-open habitats such as cropland, pastureland, and dry woodland.
Behavior
Seem to spend much of their time in burrows. Lay 4 to 21 eggs.
Population Status
Ranked as S1/S2 (critically imperiled/imperiled) in Louisiana. Threats include death from vehicles and reduced habitat from agricultural and urban development