It is absent only from the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada and from the extreme northwestern and northeastern portions of the state.
Kingsnakes feed on the ground, in mammal burrows, and under surface objects.
Large numbers of small rodents, birds, and bird eggs are also taken. At montane localities with cold winters, individuals hibernate in rodent burrows and in deep fissures in rock accumulations. The eggs of the common kingsnake are thought to be laid in loose well-aerated soil. Cavities in stable talus, abandoned rodent burrows, and rotten logs may also be used as nest sites. No information on water requirements.