Learn More
Get Involved
Scarlett Kingsnake

Scarlett Kingsnake

Lampropeltis elapsoides

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Uncommon
Habitat: Forest
Active Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
Activity: Nocturnal (Active at night)
Lifespan: 10 - 15

Small, slender, brightly banded snake with red, black, and yellow/cream rings; often confused with coral snakes (mnemonic varies by region; pattern details matter). Non-venomous constrictor that tends to be secretive, spending time under leaf litter, logs, and underground.

Diet

Small reptiles/amphibians and other small prey.

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)
Kingdom: Animalia
→
Phylum: Chordata
→
Class: Reptilia
→
Order: Squamata
→
Family: Colubridae
→
Genus: Lampropeltis
→
Species: L. elapsoides

Scientific Name

Lampropeltis elapsoides
Breeding Season
late May - early June
Nesting Season
June - July
Migration Pattern
No migration
Lifespan
10 - 15

Tracks or Signs

Found under boards/logs/leaf litter; shed skins.

Behavior

Solitary; secretive; may mimic coral snake coloration as defense.

Ecological Role

Predator of small herps; part of forest-floor food web.

Active Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)

Habitat Types

Forest

Geographic Distribution

Southeastern United States (approximate distribution shown in Commons range map)

Local Abundance

Uncommon

Range Map

Range map

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

Threats & Impacts

Habitat loss/fragmentation; road mortality.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife

Additional Notes

Non-venomous; do not confuse with venomous coral snake species.

Contribute Your Observations

Have you spotted this species? Your observations help us track populations and understand behavior patterns.

Submit an Observation