Pet's Common Name and/or Species Name
California Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata)

A little about me...
The California Mountain Kingsnake is an incredible example of nature’s creativity. The bold red, black, and white bands are often though to mimic venomous coral snakes, but that’s not actually the case. These snakes live far from coral snake territory, and their vivid red likely sends a more general warning: “Don’t mess with me.”

The name Lampropeltis comes from Greek roots meaning "shiny shield," a nod to their smooth, glossy scales that catch the light like polished armor. But their beauty isn’t just for show—it’s part of their survival strategy.

When the kingsnake moves, its bands blur together in an optical phenomenon called Flicker Fusion, making it almost impossible for predators to track. It’s a bit like watching stripes on a spinning wheel—they disappear into motion. This clever optical trick, paired with their striking colors, shows that this snake isn’t just beautiful—it’s built to thrive, reminding us that nature’s designs are as practical as they are breathtaking. While common in their habitat, they are rarely seen due to their secretive behavior.

Entrant's Name
Zeev N