Arizona's WildLife

The Arizona mountain kingsnake is a non-venomous snake native to Arizona’s mountainous forests and rocky slopes. It is easily recognized by its bold, alternating red, black, and white bands, which can lead to confusion with the venomous coral snake—a case of mimicry that helps deter predators. Mountain kingsnakes are secretive and primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, spending much of their time under rocks, logs, or in crevices while hunting for lizards, smaller snakes, and occasionally rodents. Their striking coloration, calm nature, and important role as mid-level predators make them both an interesting and ecologically valuable species in Arizona’s mountainous habitats.