Arizona Mountain Kingsnake

Subspecies L. p. pyromelana
Photo by Brian Hubbs

Lampropeltis pyromelana

Distribution

Found in mountainous areas of Arizona, western Utah, eastern Nevada, southwestern New Mexico, and portions of Sonora and Chihuahua, Mexico. Elevations range from 2,000 feet to over 9,000 feet.

Taxonomy

Species & Subspecies

There is 1 species and 3 subspecies:

Species

• Lampropeltis pyromelana: Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake

Subspecies

• L. p. pyromelana: Arizona Mountain Kingsnake
• L. p. infralabialis: Utah Mountain Kingsnake
• L. p. knoblochi : Chihuahua Mountain Kingsnake

Habitat

At lowest elevations (2,000 to 5,000 feet) this snake is primarily restricted to riparian corridors, while at higher elevations (5,000 to 9,000+ feet) they may be encountered almost anywhere. Being primarily lizard eaters, habitat must contain sunlit areas with rocks or rotting logs. This is a snake of the pine/oak belt, that reaches up into the spruce and alpine forest. Lower elevations are characterized by willows, oaks, chaparral, and even Saguaro cactus in riparian corridors.

Behaviour

Secretive. This snake remains hidden underground or under surface objects most of the time. Mountain Kingsnakes in general are abundant, yet difficult to find unless you understand when and where to look. Most are seen as they cross trails or roads on cloudy mornings or late afternoons. During the spring and summer monsoon season these snakes can be found under surface objects as they thermoregulate (warm up) or digest prey. However, they will not be found in this situation when the surface is dry. Sunny days following rains, or cloudy days during summer monsoon season are ideal for locating them in this manner.

References

Hubbs, Brian. 2004. Mountain Kings. Tricolor Books. Tempe, AZ.