Mexican black kingsnakes, or nigrites, are certainly one of the most memorable representatives of the reptile order. Their dark brown and black bodies shimmer with a pearlescent blue color in sunlight. It’s not surprising that these snakes are very popular in the pet trade.

Appearance

Despite their name, nigrites are actually a very dark shade of brown. Their blue sheen makes them appear glossy black. While hatchlings may be born with a few white or yellow spots, those quickly fade. A Mexican Black King Snake is dark all over, with gray-black belly scales and onyx-black eyes. 

Habitat

For the most part, these snakes live in various regions of the southeastern United States, Mexico, the Sonoran Desert and a small part of Arizona.

In their natural habitat, black kingsnakes live in rocky and semi-arid scrubland and grasslands. They burrow into loose soil and are also excellent swimmers. Although these snakes spend most of their time on the ground, they are excellent climbers and will sometimes explore small trees in search of bird nests.

Is it possible to keep them at home?

Nigrita makes a great pet. They are a hardy, docile snake that doesn’t need a high level of maintenance. The jet-black appearance of the snake mixed with the Blue iridescent light that their scales reflect, make them a visually stunning snake. 

Even though snakes grow to an average length of 90-120 cm, they are very easy to care for. They do not require an excessively large enclosure and can be fed a diet consisting exclusively of rodents.

For nigrita is suitable a terrarium 60x50x30 with live or artificial plants and driftwood, where the snake can hide.

Black king snakes live long enough — with proper and good keeping, they can live up to 30 years.