Characteristics:
    A large, up to 4ft, constrictor. Coloration is gray to light brown with brown or reddish brown blotches. Back scales are smooth and somewhat shiny. The belly is yellowish-tan with dark markings. The head of this snake is not much wider than the neck giving it a very unique appearance.

*Note: The prairie kingsnakes in IL and MO are considered to be the subspecies L. c. calligaster.


Habitat:
    Found in rocky wooded hillsides, open woodland, and, as the name suggests, prairies. Old farm buildings are a favorite haunt of this snake.


Behavior:
    This somewhat large constrictor is a fairly common snake, often seen crossing rural roads in both day and night conditions. They are mostly a diurnal species but when the day temperatures are too high they tend to become more nocturnal. The prairie kingsnake mates in April when it emerges from hibernation, and eggs are laid a few months later. The kingsnakes have the reputation of being able to eat venomous snakes because they are immune to the venom. While this is true, the prairie kingsnake eats mostly rodents and other prairie dewllers.


Personal Remarks:
    I have a bit of a love affair with kingsnakes. They are some of my favorite snakes to find in IL and MO. While the prairie king is far less colorful than the milk snakes and speckled kings, they are still a very exciting find. They are also our most commonly encountered kingsnake. We see them crossing the road pretty regularly at certain locations. Another great thing about this snake is the temperment. They almost never bite and are one of the few snakes you can just pick up, shoot a few photos, and let go with out too much trouble.