Common Name:

 Eastern Black Kingsnake
Scientific Name:
Lampropeltis getula nigra
Etymology:
Genus:

Lampropeltis is derived from the Greek words lampros which means "radiant" and pelta meaning "small shields".
 Species:
getula is derived from the Latin word Getulus which refers to the Getulians people of Morocco in western Africa. The chain-like pattern found on this snake was prevalent in Getulian culture.
 Subspecies:
nigra is derived from the Latin word niger which means "black".
Vernacular Names:
Black snake, chain snake, mole snake, Ridgway's king snake, thunder snake.
Average Length:
36 - 45 in. (90 - 114 cm)
Virginia Record Length: 
Record length:
58 in. (147.3 cm)

 

Virginia Fish and Wildlife Information Service: Species Booklet

Photos:

*Click on a thumbnail for a larger version.