Top 15 Best Pet Snakes: Perfect Choices for Beginners
Top 15 Best Pet Snakes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Choosing the perfect pet snake can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced reptile enthusiasts. Pet snakes are relatively low-maintenance, fascinating to observe, and come in a variety of species that cater to different levels of experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 15 best pet snakes, providing you with essential information to make an informed decision. Whether you are a beginner or looking to expand your collection, this guide has you covered.
Contents
- 1 1. Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
- 2 2. Ball Python (Python regius)
- 3 3. King Snake (Lampropeltis getula)
- 4 4. Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata)
- 5 5. Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
- 6 6. Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
- 7 7. California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae)
- 8 8. Children’s Python (Antaresia childreni)
- 9 9. Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus)
- 10 10. Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)
- 11 11. Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor)
- 12 12. Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria)
- 13 13. African House Snake (Boaedon fuliginosus)
- 14 14. Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)
- 15 15. Kenyan Sand Boa (Eryx colubrinus)
1. Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
Corn snakes are widely regarded as one of the best pet snakes for beginners due to their docile nature and ease of care. They are non-venomous and come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns. Corn snakes thrive in captivity and have a manageable size, typically growing to 3-5 feet in length.
- Diet: Mice and small rodents
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank with a secure lid, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
2. Ball Python (Python regius)
Ball pythons are another excellent choice for beginners. Known for their calm demeanor and relatively small size, they are easy to handle and care for. Ball pythons exhibit a wide range of morphs, making them highly sought after by collectors.
- Diet: Mice and small rats
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Habitat: 30-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-90°F
3. King Snake (Lampropeltis getula)
King snakes are known for their striking appearance and adaptability. They are non-venomous and have a natural resistance to the venom of other snakes, which allows them to prey on a variety of species in the wild.
- Diet: Mice, small rodents, and occasionally other snakes
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
4. Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata)
Rosy boas are small, docile snakes that make great pets for beginners. They are easy to care for and have a gentle temperament. Rosy boas are known for their beautiful coloration, which can vary based on their geographic origin.
- Diet: Mice
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Habitat: 15-20 gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
5. Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
Garter snakes are a common species that are often found in the wild. They are active and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for beginners. Garter snakes have a varied diet and are known for their distinctive striping.
- Diet: Earthworms, fish, and amphibians
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
6. Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
Milk snakes are closely related to king snakes and share many of the same care requirements. They are non-venomous and have a striking appearance, often resembling the venomous coral snake in coloration.
- Diet: Mice and small rodents
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
7. California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae)
California kingsnakes are a popular pet due to their striking black and white bands. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners. These snakes are known for their feeding response and will readily eat in captivity.
- Diet: Mice, small rodents, and occasionally other snakes
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
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8. Children’s Python (Antaresia childreni)
Children’s pythons are small, gentle snakes that are ideal for first-time snake owners. They are easy to handle and have simple care requirements. These pythons are named after John George Children, a British zoologist.
- Diet: Mice
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
9. Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus)
Western hognose snakes are known for their upturned snouts and unique defense behaviors. They are small and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners. Hognose snakes are mildly venomous, but their venom is not harmful to humans.
- Diet: Mice and small rodents
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
10. Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)
Smooth green snakes are small, insectivorous snakes that are known for their bright green coloration. They are gentle and easy to handle, making them suitable for beginners. These snakes require a diet of insects, which is different from most pet snakes.
- Diet: Insects and spiders
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 70-80°F
11. Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor)
Boa constrictors are larger than most beginner snakes but are known for their docile nature and ease of handling. They can grow quite large, so they require more space and care than smaller species. Boa constrictors are best suited for those with some experience in snake keeping.
- Diet: Rats and small mammals
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Habitat: 40-gallon tank or larger, temperature gradient of 75-90°F
12. Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria)
Rainbow boas are named for their iridescent scales that shimmer in the light. They are more suited for intermediate keepers due to their specific humidity requirements. Rainbow boas are stunning and make a beautiful addition to any collection.
- Diet: Mice and small rats
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Habitat: 30-gallon tank, high humidity, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
13. African House Snake (Boaedon fuliginosus)
African house snakes are small, hardy, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners. They are known for their calm temperament and adaptability to captivity.
- Diet: Mice and small rodents
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F
14. Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough green snakes are arboreal and known for their vibrant green color. They are insectivores and require a diet of live insects. These snakes are gentle and easy to handle but require specific environmental conditions.
- Diet: Insects and spiders
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Habitat: 20-gallon tall tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F, with climbing structures
15. Kenyan Sand Boa (Eryx colubrinus)
Kenyan sand boas are small, burrowing snakes that are perfect for beginners. They are easy to care for and have a unique appearance with their stout bodies and attractive coloration.
- Diet: Mice
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Habitat: 10-20 gallon tank, temperature gradient of 75-85°F, with sandy substrate
Conclusion
Selecting the right pet snake involves considering factors such as size, temperament, and care requirements. The snakes listed above are among the best choices for both beginners and more experienced keepers. Each species has its unique charm and requirements, ensuring that there is a perfect pet snake for everyone. Remember to research thoroughly and provide the appropriate habitat and care to ensure a happy and healthy snake.
