Brooks Kingsnake

Common Name: Brooks Kingsnake
Scientific Name: Lampropelitis getula brooksi

Description:

Brooks kingsnake belongs to colubridae family. It is non-venomous with scales all over its body. The snake is not harmful to humans and has some medically important snakebite. It has a unique coloration, protruding eyes and a post ocular strip. The males are huge and have a length that ranges from 4 to 6 feet. Brooks king snake has a variety of coloration on its body therefore, it exhibits beautiful patterns. Its scientific name is Lampropelitis Getula Brooksi.

Behavior:

Brooks kingsnake has a habit of feeding on other snakes. It also feeds o lizards and rodents such as rats. It feeds on snakes such as coral snakes, rattlesnakes and copper head snakes. Brooks king snake is active during the day therefore is categorized as a diurnal reptile. During intense sunshine, they hibernate and emerge during the night. This explains their active summer nights. When brooks king snake is threatened, it vibrates its tail and produces a hissing sound before attacking its enemy. It uses its feces as a defensive mechanism.

Geographic range:

Brooks kingsnake is not widely distributed as other species. As such, it is mainly found in Florida especially in the southern parts. Since it is a sub species of Florida kingsnake, it is not found in very many regions.

Habitat:

Brooks kingsnake are found in farmlands, cypress swamps, oak hammocks and everglades. Since it has a good swimming ability, it is common in irrigation canals.

Reproduction:

Brooks kingsnake has a relatively short breeding period. This is so because winter season does not disrupt their breeding season and ability unlike other snake species that hibernate during winter thus prolonging their breeding season. They lay an average of 8 to 18 eggs between the months of May and June.

Captivity:

Since brooks kingsnake has a beautiful skin and lacks venom, it is easy to capture them. Many people use this species as a pet. They live well in captivity.