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    Lampropeltis – Kingsnakes

    Most widespread of all US snakes that often kill and eat other snakes

    They are called kingsnakes because they sometimes eat other snakes, the most famous being King Cobra. Milk snakes are also a type of kingsnake. These snakes are non-venomous, and they kill their prey by constriction. Most kingsnakes have vibrant patterns on their skins with vivid contrasting colors.

    The patterns break up their body outline, making it less visible to predators and other snakes, allowing them to survive and forage. Some kingsnakes are even able to tolerate rattlesnake venom.

    Although not considered endangered, the populations of different species of kingsnakes seem to be declining. New evidence points to problems from invasive fire ants that feed on snake eggs among human-related issues.