Mexican Black Kingsnake Care Guide (MBK)

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Species Overview


The Mexican Black Kingsnake (*Lampropeltis getula nigrita*) is a sleek, glossy, jet-black kingsnake known for its hardy nature, curiosity, and suitability for keepers of all experience levels.

Enclosure Setup

Enclosure Size

  • Hatchlings: 10–20 gallon  
  • Juveniles: 20–30 gallon  
  • Adults: Minimum 40 gallon (36–48" long preferred)

Kingsnakes are highly active and will make use of all available space. Secure lids and locks are essential, as this species is prone to escaping.

Type of Enclosure

  • PVC, glass, or front-opening enclosures  
  • Proper ventilation is required  
  • Escape-proof design is strongly recommended  

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature Gradient

  • Warm side: 84–88°F  
  • Cool side: 72–76°F  
  • Ambient: ~75°F  

A heat mat or radiant heat panel is recommended. Overhead heat can be used but may dry the enclosure.

Night Temperatures

  • Safe drop to 70–72°F  
  • No heat lights should be used at night  

Humidity

  • 30%–50%  
  • Provide a humid hide during shedding cycles  

Substrate Options

Choose substrates that hold tunnels and resist mold:

  • Aspen shavings  
  • Coconut chip (Reptichip)  
  • Paper towels (ideal for babies or quarantine)  
  • Sani-chips  

Avoid pine or cedar products due to toxic oils.

Hides & Decor

Minimum Hides
Provide at least two hides:

  • One on the warm side  
  • One on the cool side  

A humid hide is recommended during shedding.

Enrichment

  • Branches  
  • Rocks  
  • Fake plants  
  • PVC tubes  
  • General clutter  

A well-furnished enclosure helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior.

Feeding

Diet
Feed frozen-thawed rodents only. Live feeding should only be used when absolutely necessary.

Feeding Schedule

  • Hatchlings: Every 5–7 days  
  • Juveniles: Every 7–10 days  
  • Adults: Every 10–14 days  

Prey Size

  • 10–15% of the snake’s body weight, or  
  • Approximately the thickness of the snake’s widest point.

Feeding Guidelines

Do not feed birds, lizards, or other snakes.  
Do not handle 24–48 hours after feeding. They need time to digest. Personal experience, handle on day 3 after they poop or else you could have a bit of a shitty situation (get it?)
Avoid power-feeding.

Water
Provide a clean, sturdy water dish large enough for partial soaking. Replace water 2–4 times weekly.

Temperament & Handling
Mexican Black Kingsnakes are typically curious, active, and strongly food-motivated.

Handling guidelines:

  • Handle 2–3 times per week  
  • Avoid handling near feeding days. They should still eat regardless, but better safe than sorry.
  • Expect babies to be more defensive or squirmy, this goes for nearly every snake.
  • Snakes typically calm with age and routine handling

Cleaning

  • Spot clean daily  
  • Full enclosure cleaning every 4–6 weeks  
  • Bioactive setups may require only spot cleaning due to microfauna support. Makes it pretty easy to take care of.

Shedding

  • Kingsnakes generally shed in one piece with proper humidity  
  • Provide a humid hide during shedding cycles  
  • Dull coloration and blue, cloudy eyes indicate an upcoming shed  
  • For stuck shed, use a humid box or gently remove using a damp cloth  

Common Issues

Refusing Food

Possible causes:

  • Upcoming shed  
  • Low temperatures  
  • Stress from recent changes  
  • Excessive handling  
  • Incorrect prey size  

MBKs rarely refuse food when properly maintained.

Escaping
This species is known for its strong escape instincts and should always be housed in a secure enclosure.

Overheating
Do not allow temperatures to exceed 90–92°F. Kingsnakes can overheat quickly.

With proper care, Mexican Black Kingsnakes typically live 15–25 years.