Snakes have been a popular choice for pets for centuries, but not all snakes are suitable for beginners. If you’re looking to start your journey as a snake owner, it’s important to do your research and choose a species that is easy to care for and handle. Luckily, there are plenty of snakes that fit the bill.
In this article, we will introduce you to 10 types of snakes that make great pets for beginners. From the docile ball python to the colorful corn snake, there’s a snake out there for everyone. So, let’s get started and find your perfect slithery companion!
Looking for a beginner-friendly pet snake? Here are 10 types of snakes that make great pets for beginners: corn snakes, ball pythons, king snakes, milk snakes, garter snakes, rosy boas, Kenyan sand boas, California king snakes, hognose snakes, and Western hognose snakes. These snakes are easy to care for, have a docile temperament, and are readily available in the pet trade.
10 Types of Snakes That Make Great Pets for Beginners
Are you a beginner snake owner looking for the perfect pet? Snakes make fascinating and low-maintenance pets, and many species are great for those just starting out. Here are ten types of snakes that make great pets for beginners.
1. Corn Snake
Corn snakes are a popular choice for first-time snake owners. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Corn snakes are also relatively small, usually growing to around four feet in length. They require a simple setup, with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One benefit of owning a corn snake is that they are excellent eaters. They will readily accept frozen-thawed rodents, making feeding time a breeze. Corn snakes also tend to have long lifespans, living up to 20 years in captivity.
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly snake that is easy to care for and fascinating to watch, a corn snake may be the perfect pet for you.
2. Ball Python
Ball pythons are another popular choice for beginner snake owners. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Ball pythons are also relatively small, usually growing to around three to five feet in length.
One benefit of owning a ball python is that they are very low-maintenance. They require a simple setup, with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl. Ball pythons are also excellent eaters, usually only needing to be fed once a week.
One downside of owning a ball python is that they can be picky eaters. Some ball pythons may only accept live prey, which can be more difficult and expensive to obtain than frozen-thawed rodents. However, with proper care and patience, most ball pythons can be successfully switched to frozen-thawed prey.
3. Kenyan Sand Boa
Kenyan sand boas are a smaller species of snake, usually growing to around two feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and have a unique appearance, with a sand-colored body and black markings.
One benefit of owning a Kenyan sand boa is that they are very low-maintenance. They require a simple setup, with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl. Kenyan sand boas are also excellent eaters, usually only needing to be fed once a week.
One downside of owning a Kenyan sand boa is that they are burrowers, so they may spend most of their time underground. However, they are fascinating to watch when they do come out of hiding.
4. Garter Snake
Garter snakes are a small and active species of snake, usually growing to around two to three feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
One benefit of owning a garter snake is that they are very easy to care for. They require a simple setup, with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl. Garter snakes are also excellent eaters, usually only needing to be fed once a week.
One downside of owning a garter snake is that they have a musky odor, which can be unpleasant for some owners. However, this can be minimized with proper cleaning and maintenance.
5. King Snake
King snakes are a larger species of snake, usually growing to around three to six feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
One benefit of owning a king snake is that they are excellent eaters. They will readily accept frozen-thawed rodents, making feeding time a breeze. King snakes are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple setup with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One downside of owning a king snake is that they can be more active and require more space than some other beginner-friendly snakes. They also have a higher metabolism, meaning they may need to be fed more frequently.
6. Rosy Boa
Rosy boas are a small and docile species of snake, usually growing to around two to three feet in length. They have a unique appearance, with a pinkish-brown body and black markings.
One benefit of owning a rosy boa is that they are very low-maintenance. They require a simple setup, with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl. Rosy boas are also excellent eaters, usually only needing to be fed once a week.
One downside of owning a rosy boa is that they can be shy and may spend most of their time hiding. However, with proper handling and socialization, they can become more comfortable with their owners.
7. Milk Snake
Milk snakes are a colorful and active species of snake, usually growing to around three to five feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
One benefit of owning a milk snake is that they are excellent eaters. They will readily accept frozen-thawed rodents, making feeding time a breeze. Milk snakes are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple setup with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One downside of owning a milk snake is that they can be more active and require more space than some other beginner-friendly snakes. They also have a higher metabolism, meaning they may need to be fed more frequently.
8. Hognose Snake
Hognose snakes are a small and unique species of snake, usually growing to around two to three feet in length. They have an upturned snout and are known for their dramatic defensive behavior, which includes hissing, puffing up, and playing dead.
One benefit of owning a hognose snake is that they are fascinating to watch. They have a unique appearance and behavior that make them stand out from other beginner-friendly snakes. Hognose snakes are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple setup with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One downside of owning a hognose snake is that they can be picky eaters. Some hognose snakes may only accept live prey, which can be more difficult and expensive to obtain than frozen-thawed rodents. However, with proper care and patience, most hognose snakes can be successfully switched to frozen-thawed prey.
9. Rat Snake
Rat snakes are a larger species of snake, usually growing to around four to six feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
One benefit of owning a rat snake is that they are excellent eaters. They will readily accept frozen-thawed rodents, making feeding time a breeze. Rat snakes are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple setup with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One downside of owning a rat snake is that they can be more active and require more space than some other beginner-friendly snakes. They also have a higher metabolism, meaning they may need to be fed more frequently.
10. Green Snake
Green snakes are a small and delicate species of snake, usually growing to around two to three feet in length. They are docile, easy to handle, and have a bright green coloration.
One benefit of owning a green snake is that they have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other beginner-friendly snakes. Green snakes are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring a simple setup with a heat source, a hide box, and a water bowl.
One downside of owning a green snake is that they are delicate and can be easily stressed. They may require more careful handling and socialization to become comfortable with their owners.
In conclusion, there are many types of snakes that make great pets for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a docile and easy-to-handle snake or a unique and fascinating species, there is a snake out there for you. With proper care and attention, your snake can provide years of enjoyment and companionship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best types of snakes for beginners?
If you are looking for a snake that is easy to care for and handle, there are many types that make great pets for beginners. Some of the most popular choices include corn snakes, ball pythons, and king snakes. These snakes are all relatively small, docile, and easy to care for, making them perfect for someone who is new to snake ownership.
It is important to do your research before choosing a snake, though. While these snakes are generally considered to be good choices for beginners, each species has its own unique requirements and temperament. Make sure you are prepared to provide the right environment and care for your snake before bringing one home.
What should I look for when choosing a snake?
When choosing a snake, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you should look for a snake that is healthy and well-cared for. This means checking for signs of illness or injury, and making sure the snake is eating and shedding properly.
You should also consider the size of the snake, as well as its temperament. Some snakes are more docile and easier to handle than others, which can be important if you are new to snake ownership. Finally, it is important to choose a species of snake that you feel comfortable caring for and that fits your lifestyle and living situation.
What kind of enclosure should I provide for my pet snake?
The type of enclosure you provide for your pet snake will depend on the species you choose, as well as its size and activity level. In general, snakes require a secure enclosure that provides adequate space, temperature, and humidity control.
For smaller snakes, a plastic or glass terrarium with secure ventilation and a heat source is usually sufficient. Larger snakes may require a custom-built enclosure with more space and specialized features like climbing branches or water features.
What do I need to know about feeding my pet snake?
Most pet snakes are fed a diet of mice or rats, which should be purchased frozen from a reputable supplier. The size and frequency of feedings will depend on the size and age of your snake, as well as its species and activity level.
It is important to avoid overfeeding your snake, as this can lead to obesity and health problems. You should also be aware of the risks of feeding live prey, as this can be dangerous for both the snake and the prey animal.
What should I do if my pet snake gets sick?
If you notice any signs of illness in your pet snake, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or respiratory issues, it is important to seek veterinary care right away. Snakes can be difficult to diagnose and treat, so it is important to find a veterinarian with experience treating reptiles.
In addition to seeking veterinary care, it is important to provide your snake with a clean and stress-free environment, and to ensure that it is receiving the proper nutrition and care. With the right care and attention, most pet snakes can live long and healthy lives.
In conclusion, snakes can be fascinating and rewarding pets for beginners, but it’s important to choose the right species that suits your lifestyle and experience level. This list of 10 types of snakes that make great pets for beginners is a good starting point for those who are interested in owning a snake for the first time.
Remember, owning a snake is a long-term commitment that requires proper care, attention, and dedication. Ensure that you research and understand the specific needs of your chosen species before bringing it home. With the right care and attention, your snake can live a happy and healthy life as a beloved pet.
So, whether you prefer a docile ball python or a colorful corn snake, there is a snake out there for every beginner snake owner. With patience, knowledge, and a little bit of love, you can develop a strong bond with your pet snake and enjoy the unique experience of owning one of these fascinating creatures.
