Reptile · Kingsnake & milksnake
Scarlet kingsnake care guide
Lampropeltis elapsoides
The scarlet kingsnake is a advanced-level kingsnake & milksnake from SE United States. Adults reach 35–50 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Often refuses rodents; confirm it is eating scented pinkies before buying. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 21–23°C
- Humidity 50–70%
How much does a scarlet kingsnake cost in Canada?
Scarlet kingsnake quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 35–50 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- SE United States
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 45 cm (24 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 32 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 21–23°C
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – lizards, scented pinkie mice
- Bioactive style
- Temperate forest
Scarlet kingsnake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 45 cm (24 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a temperate forest bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
Keep a moisture gradient: drier on top and at the warm end, slightly moist underneath and at the cool end.
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 21–23°C. Humidity: 50–70%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a scarlet kingsnake eat?
Carnivore – lizards, scented pinkie mice. Feed one small prey item every 5–7 days; many need lizard-scented pinkies.
Handling, temperament & health
Small and shy; tolerates gentle handling but is fragile.
Health watch: Watch for feeding refusal, dehydration and weight loss.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperatures and refresh water.
Weekly
- Lightly moisten the cool end and lower soil.
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check hides and branches are stable.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a scarlet kingsnake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 45 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Coco Husk Chips - Dried Loose Pack
Optional top layer (coco husk chips)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Cork Bark Flats
A hide in each temperature zone
Cork Branches
Many colubrids climb more than people expect
Scarlet kingsnake FAQ
Is the scarlet kingsnake good for beginners?
The scarlet kingsnake is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Small and shy; tolerates gentle handling but is fragile.
What size enclosure does a scarlet kingsnake need?
At least 60 × 45 × 45 cm (about 24 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 32 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a scarlet kingsnake cost in Canada?
Typically $200–500 CAD to buy, about $490–930 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a scarlet kingsnake need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 21–23°C. Humidity: 50–70%.
What does a scarlet kingsnake eat?
Carnivore – lizards, scented pinkie mice. Feed one small prey item every 5–7 days; many need lizard-scented pinkies.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.