As an avid reptile enthusiast and breeder, the lineage and genetics of snakes are always a topic of keen interest. When acquiring breeding stock from various sources, one often relies on the seller’s information, understanding that tracing back several generations can be challenging, if not impossible. This inherent uncertainty in the history of captive-bred animals is a common aspect of the reptile hobby.
Recently, the topic of “Mexican Black Snakes,” specifically their morphs and potential genetic anomalies, has sparked considerable discussion. My own experience with these fascinating creatures has given me a unique perspective on this subject. I acquired a pair of what were purported to be captive-bred and born (CBB) Mexican Black Kingsnakes, and to my surprise, they produced a T-negative albino offspring. While such unexpected genetic expressions are rare, the world of reptile genetics can occasionally present delightful enigmas. Just as unexpected hets can surface in corn snake breeding – I once produced snow corn snakes from a blizzard and amelanistic pairing, a surprising outcome at the time – kingsnakes, including the coveted mexican black snake, can also hold genetic secrets.
Despite the initial surprise of the albino, the prospect of working with these snakes, even if there were questions about their precise lineage or potential intergrades, was immediately appealing. The striking solid black coloration of typical Mexican Black Kingsnakes is highly desirable, and the idea of combining that with the stunning white of a T-negative albino morph is incredibly exciting. The thought of creating a pure Mexican Black Kingsnake morph had been on my mind for some time, even considering a California kingsnake cross in the past. Discovering these animals presented an even more compelling opportunity, a potentially pure MBK morph.
It’s worth noting that my pair does exhibit some banding, a characteristic that initially caused some concern. Hoping it would fade with age, I observed them closely. While the banding has indeed softened as they approached a year old, it remains subtly visible. This observation adds another layer to the ongoing discussion surrounding the genetics and morphs within Mexican Black Snakes.
[Image of a black snake with subtle banding]
[Image of a white albino snake]
In conclusion, the world of Mexican Black Snakes is filled with intriguing possibilities and occasional surprises. Whether dealing with unexpected morphs or subtle variations like banding, the journey of breeding and understanding these magnificent reptiles is continuously rewarding. The allure of the mexican black snake, in all its forms, remains undeniable for reptile enthusiasts and breeders alike.
