Banded Pattern of the California Kingsnake
The banded California Kingsnake is the most common pattern encountered in the field and is found through out its entire range. The bands consist of alternating dark and light bands.
© Getula.com / John Stephenson
The dark band can range in color from black and dark brown to tan, beige or even almost lavender. The light bands range from white to dirty white including almost all shades of yellow from cream to brilliant bright yellow.
© Getula.com / John Stephenson
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© Getula.com / John Stephenson
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© Sam Murray
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© Jose Acosta
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Bands can be solid ,broken or split
Solid
© Getula.com / John Stephenson
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Broken
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Split
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Most solid bands are tapered, the widest part of the band starting at the ventral scales then gradually narrowing up the dorsal scales, being the narrowest at the dorsal median.
© Getula.com / John Stephenson
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© Getula.com / John Stephenson
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Cal Kings that have wide non-tapering bands are called 50/50 Kings. Found in desert regions of Southern California. They are most common and sought after in the pet trade.
© Ross Padillia
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© Paul Lynum
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Cal Kings without any broken bands can be found through out its range. Although not very common they are occasionally found. Like this one I found in Yolo Co. with a large meal.
© Getula.com / John Stephenson
