Enthusiast \in-thü-ze-ast\ n : one who is ardently attached to a cause, object, or pursuit

Several tricolor species of kingsnake (genus Lampropeltis) can be found exclusively in the montane environments of western North America. They include the Mexican kingsnakes (Lampropeltis mexicana), the Sonoran mountain kingsnakes (Lampropeltis pyromelana), the Queretaro mountain kingsnake (Lampropletis ruthveni) and the California mountain or coral kingsnakes (Lampropeltis zonata).

The stunning beauty, gentle disposition, and manageable size of mountain kingsnakes have made them highly prized animals among collectors for years. These pages have been designed as an informational database for those enthusiasts' wishing to learn more about the mountain kingsnakes' natural history, life habits, and husbandry. Finally, this evergrowing body of knowledge has become readily accessible to keepers.

In its dual function, this site has also been erected as a plea to save these precious animals. Unfortunately, the recent years have brought with them an increase in collecting pressure. In the wake we sadly discover irreversible habitat degradation and dwindling populations. Will the special qualities that make these animals so highly regarded also mark their downfall? Today, the best interests of these kingsnakes must be kept present and immediate so that there shall never arise the need for outside agencies to further regulate or limit the enthusiast's accessibility to these wonderful creatures.

Updates: Click here to see what's new.

Seasonal Feature: One of many new features coming to the MKESite (published quarterly in accordance with the spring, summer, fall and winter seasons). Topic for winter 1998:

Utah's purported L. t. taylori x L. p. infralabialis

Photo by Kirk Setser; wild male Lampropeltis pyromelana, Sierra Co., New Mexico