Read About Hognose Snake

Hognose Snake is becoming a popular pet in the reptile world. Everything you need to know about them is contained in this article.

Hognose Snake - Facts

1. Description:

   Hognose snakes may grow up to four feet long. They have upturned noses, thick necks, and are usually spotted, with different colors and patterns.

2. Varieties:

   The main varieties of these snakes are the Eastern and Western Hognose snakes, along with the Plains Hognose, the Dusty Hognose, and the Mexican Hognose Snakes.

3. History:

   The Western Hognose ranges from southwestern Manitoba through the Great Plains and central U.S., and into Mexico. The Eastern Hognose ranges from Minnesota through eastern Texas.

4. Physical Traits:

   Hognose snakes have upturned noses used for burrowing.

5. Other Defining Characteristics:

   Hognose snakes are known for playing dead to discourage predators.

6. Habitat:

   Hognose snakes live in sandy areas and fields, and along the edges of woodland areas.

Hognose Snake - Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Hognose snakes are generally gentle and docile, and they put on an entertaining "show" when they feel threatened.

2. Liabilities:

   Hognose snakes do have fangs in the back of the mouth, with mild venom. However, they rarely bite.

3. Health Issues:

   Common health problems of Hognose snakes are dermatitis, respiratory disease, stomatitis, and ticks and mites.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   Hognose snakes thrive on a diet of domestic rodents, such as mice and rats, and toads and frogs. Water should be changed daily, and the tank cleaned thoroughly at least once a week.

5. Reaction to Children and other Pets:

   Hognose snakes are fairly gentle, but children and household pets should be supervised when near the snake.

6. Special Household Needs:

   Children should not be allowed near the snake's enclosure unless an adult is present.

Hognose Snake - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   A healthy Hognose snake will have clear eyes, nose and mouth, healthy skin, and will be active and alert.

2. Supplies:

   Besides the tank (which should be as large as possible), the snake will require a heating pad under one end of the tank (it needs a hot and a cool area). Newspaper or wood shavings can be used for substrate, as the snake likes to burrow. A water bowl, hide box, and a rock are also necessary.

3. Expense:

   Hognose snakes are plentiful, so the initial cost is not very high. However, the cost of the food supply and other necessities will add to the expense of owning the snake.