A Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of California

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California Mountain Kingsnakes found in California

Not Dangerous (Non-poisonous) This snake does not have venom that is dangerous to most humans. These are not Coral Snakes!
The California Mountain Kingsnake is a harmless, diurnal snake of forests, chaparral, and coastal scrub. Found primarily in the mountains, but along the coast it can be found close to sea level. Often seen along mountain streams, and underneath rocks in sunny mountain clearings. Sometimes seen on roads in the evening or at night. Currently no subspecies are recognized, but the former subspecies are still accepted by many. Check the map to determine which of the formerly-recognized subspecies occurs in your area.

Sierra Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata (multicincta)	Coast Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata (multifasciata)	San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata (parvirubra)

San Diego Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata (pulchra)	St. Helena Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata (zonata)

Currently no subspecies of this snake are recognized. This map illustrates the complete range of the species divided into the ranges of the formerly recognized subspecies. Brown: Lampropeltis zonata multicincta - Sierra Mountain Kingsnake Orange: Lampropeltis zonata multifasciata - Coast Mountain Kingsnake Light Blue: Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra - San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake Purple: Lampropeltis zonata pulchra - San Diego Mountain Kingsnake Red: Lampropeltis zonata zonata - St. Helena Mountain Kingsnake Yellow: L. z. zonata x L. z. multifasciata Intergrades = Diablo Mountain Kingsnake Gray: General area of intergradation

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