Common Name:

 Eastern Kingsnake
Scientific Name:
Lampropeltis getula getula
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:
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.
Vernacular Names:
Bastard horn snake, black king snake, common chain snake, common king snake, cow sucker, horse racer, master snake, oakleaf rattler, thunder-and-lightning snake, thunderbolt, thunder snake, wamper, wampum snake.
Average Length:
36 - 48 in. (90 - 122 cm)
Virginia Record Length: 
63.8 in. (162.1 cm)
Record length:
82 in. (208.3 cm)

 

Virginia Fish and Wildlife Information Service: Species Booklet

Photos:

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