Eastern Kingsnake

Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula):  Long a favorite among snake-enthusiasts, this species commonly reaches about 5 feet in length.  The eastern kingsnake has a chain-like pattern of white or cream markings on a black or blackish-green background.  Like many snakes, kingsnakes often move, or hunt, in the ominous, humid weather preceding a storm.  One interesting local name is "swamp-thumper"!  This powerful constrictor eats frogs, rats, and snakes.  It often consumes venomous snakes and is immune to their venom.