Description:

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Lampropeltis getula brooksi - Commonly known as Brooks kingsnake is a subspecies of the Florida kingsnake and part of the Colubridae family.

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This snake is native to the swampy areas and everglades of southern Florida - and are noted for being strong swimmers.

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Easily identified by their checkered pattern and large, round pupiled eyes, these snakes carry a lot of personality and are known for their spunky disposition.

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Mostly active during daylight, the Brooks kingsnake exhibits some interesting behaviours and characteristics such as their ability to dig extensive burrows and their immunity to venom - which allows them to prey upon and feed on other species of snakes.

 

As  non-venomous snakes themselves, Brooks Kingsnakes will often mimic the behaviour of a rattlesnake when threatened. This curious adaptation of nature causes the Brooks Kingsnake to shake its tail and hiss loudly when confronted by a larger predator.

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Size:

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Brooks kingsnakes are slender but lengthy snakes that reach a measurement of 4-6 feet at their full grown size (120-180cms). 

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Unlike many other types of snake, kingsnakes do not have oversized heads. The diameter of their heads usually matches or is smaller to the the widest area of their bodies when they are healthy and well fed.

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Temperament:

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Kingsnakes are generally not aggressive unless startled, but they typically show a high level of awareness and are quick to attack anything that may be mistaken for food. My experience has taught me that it is usually best to pick them up from the body and not place your hand within their line of vision when attempting to handle them.

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The bite from a kingsnake can be a bit painful and will usually draw blood, but their fangs are not generally of a significant enough size to cause much damage to a human being. 

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These snakes are active and alert to any changes in their surroundings. They will usually come to investigate the entrance of their enclosure as soon as it is opened and will also constantly test the boundaries of their space looking to exploit any opportunity of escape that they may be presented with.
 

With cautious regular handling and consideration, these snakes typically make good pets and will become accustomed to human interaction.

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Housing:

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Brooks kingsnakes are not a heavy bodied snake, but due to their length and active nature should be provided adequate space to stretch out and move around. They can be kept in a 30 gallon terrarium at a very minimum, but would do well with a 40 gallon or larger.

 

Kingsnakes do enjoy having some decorative items to climb on. They will coil to branches and vines and should also be provided with one or more hiding areas.

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Kingsnakes should never be housed together, as these animals are sometimes known to be cannibalistic. 

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Temperature and Humidity:

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Brooks kingsnakes need a base temperature of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit (slightly higher than room temperature), but should also be provided with a hot zone within their enclosure reaching a temperature of up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. A high powered under tank heating mat attached to one end of their enclosure is my personal recommendation for maintaining this heat gradient.

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Brooks kingsnakes will require a humidity level of 40-50%. This can be attained by daily misting and the addition of a water dish to their enclosure.

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As with all reptiles, a digital in-tank thermometer and hygrometer are essential for monitoring your snakes environment. Failing to do so, will quickly result in illness and their eventual death.

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Lighting:

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UVB lighting is not a requirement when keeping a Brooks kingsnake, however basking lights can be used to supplement their heating requirements.

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Like most animals, a full 12 hour day and night time light cycle is essential for your snakes health and wellbeing. Never keep them in constant light or darkness for an extended period of time.

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Substrate:

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As these snakes like to burrow and will sometimes need to do so for a sense of security, my recommendation for substrate is something light but packable like eco-earth or any type of coco-fibre.

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Coco-fibre is easily available for purchase almost anywhere. It is also inexpensive and does a great job at holding humidity. Layer enough of this into your kingsnakes enclosure that they can sufficiently bury and cover themselves in it if they desire to do so.

 

These are not messy animals. With regular spot cleaning, a monthly or even bi-monthly replacement of substrate is more than adequate to suit their needs. 

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Diet:

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Brooks Kingsnakes are not considered fussy eaters. They will rarely turn down a meal, and almost always attack with voracity at anything that crosses their path.

 

Young kingsnakes can be fed pinky mice weekly, while adults can be fed full grown adult mice, or rats pups weekly or bi-weekly.

 

For the safety of your snake, you should always feed pre-killed prey items. Accounting for the fact that they're not picky when it comes to eating, it is only logical and humane to do so.

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Lifespan:

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As colubrids, these snakes are not the longest lived when compared to many other snake species, but can still live a respectable average lifespan of 10-15 years. So owning one is still a long term commitment.

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