CapeNature to phase out trade in California kingsnakes
CapeNature is phasing out trade in California kingsnakes (Lampropeltis californiae) in the Western Cape over a two-year transition period that began on 1 April 2026, after a risk assessment classified the species as high risk for invasion. Animals already lawfully held may remain in captivity for the remainder of their natural lives.
The assessment, which used the Bomford (2008) rapid risk assessment model, identified the potential for ecological disruption and competition with indigenous species should animals escape or be released and establish in the wild. California kingsnakes have been kept in South Africa's reptile-keeping community since at least the 1980s and are widely kept by hobbyists. The Entity has therefore adopted a phased approach that recognises existing lawful permit holders while addressing the biodiversity risk.
Preventing potentially invasive species from becoming established is far more effective than attempting to address their impacts once they have spread. We recognise that many permit holders have kept these animals responsibly for years. This approach allows them to continue doing so while we progressively reduce the risk to the Western Cape’s biodiversity.
The framework is implemented in terms of Section 16(1)(e) of the Nature Conservation Ordinance (Ordinance 19 of 1974), read with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004). For the duration of the transition period, trade in California kingsnakes within the Western Cape is limited to existing permit holders, and no new captivity, import or transport permits will be issued to anyone who does not currently hold a valid permit for the species. Trade includes selling, buying, donating and any other transfer of ownership.
Export permits may be considered during the transition period, subject to an import permit from the receiving province and to that province's conservation authority being informed of CapeNature's position.
At the end of the transition period, all trade will cease and no further import, transport or captivity permits will be issued. Exports will be allowed only under regulated conditions consistent with conservation objectives. The measures are intended to reduce progressively the presence and movement of California kingsnakes in the Western Cape rather than displace animals that are already legally held.
CapeNature encourages permit holders to keep their animals securely and not to release them into the environment. Anyone who finds a California kingsnake outside captivity is asked to report it to CapeNature.
The approved framework provides for the same risk-assessment process to be applied to other species where there are concerns about invasiveness.
CapeNature will notify all existing permit holders in writing and has informed the Western Cape reptile-keeping community through the Western Cape Herpetological Association. Permit holders who are unsure how the arrangements affect their animals or planned activities should contact CapeNature before any trade, transport or disposal.
Email: permits.fax@capenature.co.za.
ABOUT CapeNature
CapeNature is a public institution mandated to promote and ensure biodiversity conservation within the Western Cape and is the custodian of the Cape Floristic Region. The Entity manages most of the mountain catchments and reserves that supply ecosystem services to the citizens of the Western Cape. This requires good scientific data, a sound understanding of fynbos ecology and commitment to the principles of integrated biodiversity management and planning. Most of this work is in remote areas out of the public eye but has a direct bearing on the quality of life of millions of people in the province.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
CapeNature
General Manager: Advocacy
Petro van Rhyn
pvrhyn@capenature.co.za
071 231 7576
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