Western Hognose a.k.a Heterodon nasicus
Intro to Hognose Snakes
Hognose Snakes are a popular pet snake because they come in a variety of morphs which feature color and pattern mutations. These Snakes are considered rear-fang venomous. The venom that this snake possesses is mild, but humans aren’t in any danger from it. Generally they are docile and can make great pets when established,
Hognose Care
Keeping Hognose Snakes is fairly easy. You’ll need a basking spot of 85-90°F, ambient temperature os 70-78°F, and 30-50% humidity. This can be easily achieved with an Under Tank Heater or Basking Lamp, a proper Water Bowl, and substrate (Aspen or Coco). Add a hide and decorate their enclosure as you please, decorations like foliage help with enrichment.
Breeders commonly keep their Hognose Snakes in Rack Systems. Where they start off in “Pencil Bins” or 6 qt tubs, then graduating to 32 qt tubs. As pets, however, Hognose can do well in tanks or pvc enclosures. Baby Hognose Snakes can start in a 10 gallon tank. Adults can live in a 40 gallon tank to a 4×2 enclosure.
Hognose Snakes For Sale in the Pet Trade
Hognose Snakes are bred readily in captivity as they are prolific and can double clutch during their breeding season. Though they are prolific, it may be hard to get fresh babies to start feeding so there is a higher demand than there is supply. To breed these, it helps for them to go through a brumation cycle of about 2-3 months at ~50°F. After brumation, it is important to get your animal back on food. Once these animals are re-established, you may begin pairing!