Western Hognose Snake Essential Care Information
General Information:
North American hognose snakes are non-medically significant rear-fanged venomous colubrid snakes, native to southern Canada, northern Mexico, and most of the United States. There are three recognized genera of hognose snakes:
- Heterodon (North America)
- Xenodon (Previously Lystrophis) (South America)
- Leioheterodon (Madagascar)
North American Hognose Snake Species:
- Eastern hognose (Heterodon platirhinos)
- Western hognose (Heterodon nasicus)
- Southern hognose (Heterodon simus)
- Mexican hognose (Heterodon kennerlyi)
This guide covers the general care of Heterodon nasicus/kennerlyi
Physical Traits:
- Short faces with upturned snouts for digging.
- Keeled, matte scales; coloration varies by species.
- Round pupils, indicating diurnal (daytime) activity.
- Length: Species dependant; ~14-30 inches (36-117 cm), with females usually larger.
- Lifespan: 10-15 years in captivity, occasionally longer.
Enclosure Setup:
- Size: Minimum of 1 sq ft per 1 ft of snake length; Adult male: 2x2x2, Adult female: 48x24x16”
- Lighting: 12 hours on / 12 hours off, 18-22” 5.0 / 6% T5 HO linear UVB bulb and full-spectrum grow light (6500k)
- Heating: 25-75w halogen bulb on a dimming switch, basking surface temperature of 90-95°F (32-35°C) with a cool side at 70-75°F (21-24°C).
- Humidity: Maintain a constant gradient ranging from 30-60%, humid hide that is kept consistently moist, measured using a digital hygrometer.
Substrate (Bedding):
- Use a sandy, soil-like substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
- Maintain at least a 4” deep layer; as a fossorial species, deeper is better for burrowing.
- Spot clean as needed and replace completely every 3-4 months.
Enclosure Decorations/Enrichment:
- Include hiding spots and low objects for climbing over and enrichment (e.g., cork logs, branches, rocks).
Feeding:
- Varied diet of whole prey (mice, rats, quail, captive-bred frogs/toads).
- Hatchlings eat twice per week; adults every ~7-10 days, depending on body condition.
- Use frozen-thawed prey to ensure safety and humane treatment.
Handling Tips:
- Hognose snakes rarely bite out of aggression, but can mistake hands for food.
- They possess a mild venom that is released when allowed to chew on skin, which can cause localized swelling.
Co-Habitation:
- Hognose snakes are solitary in the wild. It is not recommended to house them together to prevent stress or cannibalization.
