Size:
A relatively small species of Kingsnake, the Arizona Mountain Kingsnake
rarely exceeds 42 inches in adult length.
Color:
They are banded in white or yellowish rings, separated by wide red and thin
black bands. They are very similar in coloration to the western Coral Snake.
Diet:
In the wild, Arizona Mountain Kingsnakes feed on lizards and their eggs,
birds, and rodents.
The Arizona
Mountain Kingsnake is also known as the Sonoran Mountain
Kingsnake or "Pyro". The Arizona Mountain
Kingsnake usually live in mountains or
rock piles, and will rarely venture far from their homes.
In the wild, they are active between April and November.
They are most active after periods of rain. They are
primarily diurnal, the Arizona Mountain Kingsnake usually
ventures out between morning and evening depending on
the weather. They are also primarily terrestrial, meaning
they spend most of their time on the ground, but they
have been observed climbing tress and hunting in low
bushes. The areas in which the Arizona Mountain Kingsnake
makes its home are often characterized by pinyon-juniper
woodland and pine-fir woodland. They will often live
near streams or other water sources and usually live
near rock piles. The Arizona Mountain Kingsnake usually
only emerge from the rock piles to feed, mate or to
find a better hiding spot. They usually live in elevations
between 4500 and 7500 feet. The Arizona Mountain Kingsnake
can become quite docile and make excellent pets when
properly handled. If a Arizona Mountain Kingsnake feels
threatened, it will emit a musk scent and may bite.
