Mexican Cobra Lampropeltis

CARE GUIDE

Size : Adults can reach up to 140-200 cm

Origin : Mexico

Longevity : Up to 20 years in captivity

Natural Habitat : The Mexican King Cobra inhabits dry steppes, hills, deserts and plains with many rocks and undergrowth in the State of Tamaulipas, Mexico.

Mexican King Cobras are an ideal snake species for beginners, having one of the most distinctive looks among all snake species. Its docile character, combined with its ease of maintenance, make it one of the most popular choices for those looking for their first reptile.

Although they are a relatively easy species to keep, you must pay attention to some aspects and ensure certain conditions that you can find in the following paragraphs.

Terrarium

Size : Minimum 90x45x45cm for 1 adult

Material : Glass or Wood

- Heating and Lighting

You should create a terrarium with a thermal gradient with a minimum temperature of 22ºC on the cold side, around 32ºC on the warm side. During the night the temperature should not drop below 18ºC. Warming up can be done using a heating mat.

Although not essential, exposure during the day to a UVI between 0 and 3 (Ferguson Zone 1-2) is recommended. To achieve these UV indices you can use ShadeDweller UV lamps.

- Humidity

Mexican King Snakes need relative humidity between 50 and 70%. As a rule, these humidity levels correspond to the ambient humidity present in our homes.

The snake should always have a drinking bowl with fresh water available.

- Decoration

You can use an Aspen substrate, or Arcadia Earth Mix Arid. You can create a three-dimensional habitat using logs and rocks, making sure they are securely fastened. Especially with young animals, it is advisable to provide some places for them to hide, thus avoiding unnecessary stress. You can also use natural plants (only safe species) and/or artificial ones)

Diet and Supplementation

Eating habits: Carnivores

Juvenile Diet: You can feed prey up to 15% of the animal's body mass every 5 days.

Adult Diet (2 years and older): You can feed prey up to 10% of the animal's body mass every 7-14 days.

- Food

Dead mice and/or rats.

According to Law No. 95/2017 of August 23, the sale and/or advertising of wild/exotic animals through websites/internet platforms is not permitted. If you would like to know more about the animals we have available and their respective sales conditions, please contact us.