Western Hognose Snake

My second profile will be on the Western Hognose Snake. This snake does not grow to be very big. The average size is 16-25 inches. However, some will grow bigger. Since this snake will not get big like a Boa Constrictor, you could start off with a cage big enough to house an adult snake. Therefore, we will look at the list for an adult Western Hognose Snake.

1. Terrarium (fancy name for cage) 20gallon to 30gallon (This should fit your baby and adult Hognose)--$40
2. Water bowl big enough to soak in--$20 (If you happen to have a bigger Hognose you would probably want a 40gallon tank in order to fit a big enough water bowl)
3. Substrate--Since this snake is known for burrowing aspen bedding would be a good choice
4. Hides--Price will vary usually $20-35. At least 2 appropriately sized hides (one for cooler side and one for hotter side of cage)
5. Branches and decor--Price will vary usually $30-40. Since this snake is not tropical it will not need a lot of plants, however, a few differently sized branches will help make the cage look more realistic and also help the snake shed
6. Temperature and Humidity gage--$15 unless you decide digital which is $20each. (2 temperature gages and 1 humidity gage)
7. Heat lamp--$15
8. Incandescent Bulb--$10-$15
9. Under Tank Heat Pad--depends on size. A heat pad for a 20-30gallon is around $20, for a 40g it is usually $35

Daytime temperatures should be 75-85˚F and nighttime temperatures should be 8-10˚F cooler. A note on feeding: In the wild, this snake species will eat toads, lizards, and small snakes. If captive bred, it will most likely be fed pre-killed mice/rats. Some captive breeders will feed their snakes live mice/rats. This snake mimics the Prairie Rattlesnake, but it is completely harmless! This snake may be difficult to feed during the winter if wild caught. Wild caught, however, is not recommended because they can be hard to tame.