Fortunately, many of the species in the Elaphe , Pituophis , and Lampropeltis genera were well on their way in captive breeding situations before these laws were initiated. Much of the original parentage was collected in the field between 4 to 8 years ago. Almost all of these species are relatively abundant and easily found in their native habitats. Whether or not these collected specimens would be used for captive breeding depended on the collector. The most common sign for this is their willingness to feed on the first and second day of Captivity.
Most specimens lock right into an annual breeding performance as manipulated by the keeper.
Perhaps the most dramatic example of domestic adaptation is the proven ability to raise a female captive-born hatchling to an adult which lays eggs at 18 months of age. The adult size of these snakes has also been significant because they require less cage space than larger constrictors. Anyone who begins to observe the wide variety of patterns and stark colors in the Lampropeltis or Elaphe groups can attest to the fact that they are among the most beautiful of snakes. Many captive breeders have selected certain snakes, such as the two phases of the California king snake, to experiment with pattern polychromatism. Very valuable data from behavior, pattern types, and body morphology is being acquired that will perhaps redefine the now existing status of relationships within a genus and between genera.