Kingsnakes, belonging to the genus Lampropeltis, are non-venomous constrictors found across North and Central America. They are well-known for their ability to prey on other snakes, including venomous species like rattlesnakes. Their common name, “kingsnake,” refers to their habit of consuming other snakes, establishing them as significant predators within their ecosystems.
The Predatory Relationship
When a kingsnake encounters a rattlesnake, it employs a specific hunting strategy. The kingsnake, an active hunter, uses its sense of smell to locate prey. Once found, it typically strikes and grasps the rattlesnake, often targeting the head to prevent bites.
Following the strike, the kingsnake rapidly coils its powerful body around the rattlesnake, initiating constriction. This action overwhelms the prey’s circulatory system, preventing blood flow to the brain and other organs, leading to a rapid loss of oxygen. Kingsnakes are strong constrictors, capable of exerting significant force relative to their body size, which aids in subduing other snakes. After the rattlesnake is subdued, the kingsnake swallows it whole, usually headfirst.
Kingsnake Resistance to Rattlesnake Venom
Kingsnakes possess a natural physiological resistance to venom, enabling them to prey on venomous snakes. They have a high tolerance to the venom of pit vipers, which includes rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths found in their shared geographic regions. This resistance is not absolute immunity, but it significantly reduces the impact of a venomous strike that would be lethal to other animals of similar size.
This resistance stems from specialized proteins within the kingsnake’s blood. These proteins can neutralize or inhibit the effects of certain snake venoms by binding to venom components and preventing damage. Some kingsnakes may also have modified cellular receptors that are less susceptible to venom proteins. This evolved resistance is specific to the venoms of snakes they co-exist with; for example, a kingsnake resistant to North American rattlesnake venom would not necessarily be resistant to the venom of a snake from a different continent.
Beyond Rattlesnakes: Kingsnake Diet
Kingsnakes have a diverse and opportunistic diet that extends far beyond venomous snakes. Their generalist predatory nature allows them to thrive on a variety of prey available in their habitat. Kingsnakes are carnivores, consuming animal meat exclusively. Beyond other snakes, kingsnakes regularly prey on rodents, lizards, birds and their eggs, frogs, turtles, and turtle eggs. This broad diet highlights their adaptability and their role as important ecological regulators within their environments, controlling populations of various small animals.