🐍 Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus) Care Sheet

Difficulty: Beginner
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Adult Size: 18–36 inches (males smaller, females larger)
Enclosure Size: 3–4 ft long (20–40 gallons)
Temperament: Curious and entertaining, with mild defensive displays

🏡 Housing

• Enclosure Type: Secure wooden vivarium

• Substrate: Aspen, Lignocel

• Décor: Branches, hides, rocks, leaf litter, and enrichment items

• Hides: Provide at least two, one on the warm side and one on the cool side

🌡️ Temperature & Lighting

• Basking Spot: 30–32°C (86–90°F)

• Cool End: 22–25°C (72–77°F)

• Night Temp: Can drop to 20°C (68°F)

• Lighting: UVB optional but recommended for well-being

• Heating: Heat mat or overhead heating with thermostat control

💧 Humidity

• Humidity Range: 30–50%

• Water: Shallow dish available at all times

• Humidity Box: Optional moist hide during shed cycles

🍽️ Feeding

• Diet: Frozen/thawed mice

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: Every 5–7 days

  • Adults: Every 7–10 days

• Can be picky eaters as babies—scenting prey may help

• Always use tongs; remove uneaten food if not taken within a few hours

✋ Handling

• Generally docile and curious with regular handling

• May bluff by flattening neck or hissing, but rarely bites

• Always support their body and handle calmly

⚠️ Things to Watch For

• Refusal to eat (common during shedding or breeding season)

• Retained shed or stuck eyecaps

• Always ensure good ventilation and secure lid (they’re escape artists!)