There are nearly 3,000 species of snakes worldwide, but which ones make great pets, especially for beginners? Enter the realm of small pet snakes – fascinating creatures that captivate our interest yet pose unique challenges. What makes a snake breed suitable for a busy pet parent?
If you’re considering stepping into the world of reptile ownership, you’re probably curious about what it takes to care for these slithering companions. This article is here to guide you through the different types of small snakes, reveal their appeal, and offer insights to help you make an informed decision. Your new scaly friend awaits!
Corn Snakes
Corn snakes are one of the most popular choices for beginners. Their gentle nature and striking appearance make them an appealing choice.
They’re called corn snakes because of the pattern on their belly. It looks like maize, which is a kind of corn Native Americans once grew.
Corn snakes are native to the southeastern United States. They’re small snakes, typically growing between 2.5 to 5 feet long. These creatures enjoy a lifespan of up to 20 years with proper care, so they can be long-term companions.
Now, let’s look at how to take care of corn snakes, especially if you’re a beginner. First, you need to set up a suitable living space. A 20-gallon aquarium or a similar-sized enclosure works well for an adult corn snake.
You’ll want to include hiding spots and climbing branches to keep them comfortable.
Next, let’s talk about temperature. Corn snakes prefer a warm environment. The ideal temperature is around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
You can use a heat lamp or heating pad to keep their home warm. But remember, one side of the enclosure should be cooler so they can choose where they want to rest.
Feeding corn snakes is not complicated. They eat mostly mice. Baby corn snakes will eat pinky mice, while adult corn snakes will eat larger ones. You can feed them once a week, and frozen mice are often the best choice.
Handling corn snakes is usually a pleasant experience. They are gentle and rarely bite. When you pick them up, support their body and let them move around your hands and arms.
Did you know corn snakes are excellent climbers? They can climb trees and walls with ease. And though they’re called corn snakes, they don’t eat corn at all!
Ball Pythons
Ball pythons are another great choice for those new to keeping snakes as pets. Named for their habit of curling into a ball when frightened, these snakes are known for their calm and gentle nature. Their stunning patterns and variety of colors make them a favorite among pet owners.
Ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa. They are a manageable size, typically growing to around 3 to 5 feet in length. With good care, a ball python can live for up to 30 years, so they can be a significant commitment.
When it comes to housing a ball python, you’ll want a secure enclosure that’s at least 30 to 40 gallons in size. Provide hiding spots and branches for climbing. The temperature should be kept between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit on the cool side, and 80 to 85 degrees on the warm side.
Feeding your ball python will mostly involve mice or rats, depending on the snake’s size. Feeding them once a week is usually enough, and many owners prefer to use frozen rodents. Make sure to thaw them completely before feeding.
Ball pythons enjoy being handled and are usually very docile. You’ll want to wait a day or two after feeding to handle them, though, to let them digest their meal.
Health care for ball pythons includes regular checks for signs of illness. A vet with experience in reptiles can provide annual check-ups. Keep an eye on their skin, eyes, and eating habits for signs of problems.
One fun fact about ball pythons is their vast array of colors and patterns. Breeders have developed many different looks for this snake, and you can choose one that you find most appealing.
Garter Snakes
Garter snakes are often found in gardens and yards across North America. They’re usually the first snake people think of when they imagine small snakes in their local area.
Garter snakes are well-known for their bright, colorful stripes that run the length of their bodies. These stripes can vary in color, making each snake unique.
Garter snakes are small, typically reaching only 2 to 3 feet in length. They are very adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats. This makes them a great choice for beginners.
Setting up a home for a garter snake is simple. A 10 to 20-gallon enclosure works well. Inside, you’ll want to provide hiding places and a water dish.
They need a temperature range from 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, with a slight drop at night.
Feeding a garter snake is a bit different from other pet snakes. They eat a wider variety of food, including fish, worms, and insects. You can feed them two or three times a week, depending on their size and age.
Handling a garter snake is usually easy, as they are often docile. They may release a mild odor if they feel threatened, but it’s not harmful. Supporting their body and allowing them to move freely in your hands is key to a positive handling experience.
Health care for garter snakes includes watching for changes in behavior or appearance. Regular vet check-ups with a reptile specialist can ensure they stay healthy. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
An interesting aspect of garter snakes is that they often live in groups in the wild. They hibernate together and can even be seen basking in the sun as a group.
Rosy Boas
Rosy boas are small snakes that have captured the hearts of many snake enthusiasts. They are named for their beautiful rose-colored stripes and can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Their appealing appearance and gentle disposition make them excellent pet snakes, especially for beginners.
A rosy boa’s enclosure should be at least 20 gallons. These snakes love to hide and climb, so make sure to include plenty of rocks and branches. They need a temperature gradient with a warm side at 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a cool side around 70 to 75 degrees.
Feeding rosy boas is not complicated. They mostly eat mice, and a meal every 7 to 10 days is usually sufficient. Frozen mice are often preferred by snake owners.
Handling rosy boas can be a pleasant experience. They are typically gentle and tolerate being handled well. Just be gentle and support their body as they move.
Health care for rosy boas includes regular check-ups and watching for any signs of illness. Changes in behavior or appearance can be early warning signs.
One interesting thing about rosy boas is their slow, deliberate movement. Unlike some faster-moving snakes, they seem to take their time exploring their surroundings.
King Snakes
King snakes are a diverse group of snakes found throughout the Americas. They are known for their striking patterns and vibrant colors.
They’re called king snakes because they often eat other snakes, even venomous ones. This doesn’t mean they’re dangerous to humans, though. In fact, king snakes are known to be great snakes for beginners.
A king snake needs a 20 to 40-gallon enclosure, depending on its size. They need plenty of hiding spots and a temperature range from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
King snakes eat a variety of prey, including mice, rats, and birds. Feeding them once a week is usually enough. Many owners choose frozen prey for convenience.
Handling king snakes is often enjoyable. They are usually calm and curious. When holding them, always support their body and allow them to move freely.
Regular vet check-ups and at-home monitoring can help keep your king snake healthy. If you notice anything unusual, consult a vet with reptile experience.
One amazing fact about king snakes is their resistance to venom. They can eat rattlesnakes and other venomous snakes without any problems.
King snakes come in various species and colors, so you can choose the one that appeals to you most. They are among the snake breeds that are best for those new to reptiles, thanks to their stunning appearance and manageable care needs.
Western Hognose
Western Hognose snakes are well-known for their unique appearance and behavior. They have a distinctive upturned snout, which is used for digging in their natural habitat. This gives them a look that sets them apart from other snake breeds.
The question “Are snakes good pets?” often comes up, and Western Hognose snakes provide a compelling answer. They are relatively small, reaching around 15 to 25 inches in length, making them manageable for most snake enthusiasts.
Their care is also straightforward. A 20-gallon tank usually suffices, with a temperature gradient from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
These snakes are generally docile and are usually easy to handle, making them suitable for beginners. They primarily eat mice, which can be fed to them once a week.
What truly sets Western Hognose snakes apart is their fascinating behavior. They are known to play dead when threatened, rolling onto their back and even sticking out their tongue. This behavior can be both surprising and endearing to watch.
Are Small Pet Snakes Your Ideal Scaly Companion?
Taking the plunge into owning a snake doesn’t have to be daunting. With this guide to small pet snakes, you’re now equipped to choose the perfect breed. From understanding their behavior to finding the right accessories, you’ve got everything you need.
Ready to take the next step? Ease the stress of being a pet parent with PetMarvelous, the Ulti-Mutt Destination for Pet Information. Explore our guides, reviews, and more on our website, or contact us today!
