Hognose Snake
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Snake |
| Size | Small (1.5-3 ft) |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years |
| Temperature | 72-90°F |
| Humidity | 30-50% |
| Enclosure | 20+ gal |
| Care Level | Beginner |
| Diet | Mice (some need toads) |
| Temperament | Dramatic, Entertaining |
Recommended for Hognose Snakes
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Hognose Snake Habitat Essentials
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Ask which Heterodon you were sold
Hognose is a group. The animal in the hobby is the western hognose, Heterodon nasicus, a 1.5 to 3 foot burrower that lives about 15 to 20 years. Eastern hognoses and southern hognoses are other species. Several states protect them. A listing that only says hognose should name Heterodon nasicus before you pay. The upturned nose is for digging, not for a gimmick photo.
Temperament is dramatic, which is accurate, and entertaining, which is the owner's word for a snake that would rather bluff than be handled. They can be a fair first snake when they are captive-bred and already taking mice. Wild-caught toad-eaters are a different project.
Mice, heat, and a closed mouth that is still a mouth
Temperature runs about 72 to 90°F across the gradient, with the warm hide in the upper 80s. Enclosure size starts around 20 gallons and should be longer than the snake. Diet is mice. Some babies need a mouse that smells like a toad. That means scenting a mouse, not stocking amphibians. Rear fangs deliver a mild venom used on prey. A prolonged chew on a person can swell. Treat bites as a reason to stop the handling session and wash, and get care if the swelling spreads or breathing changes.
A refusing snake in summer, a wrinkled shed, or mites are the reasons to call a clinic. ARAV is the directory. The not-eating guide and the checker are the on-site tools.
Hognose questions
Which hognose is the pet one?
Almost always the western hognose, Heterodon nasicus. Eastern and southern hognoses are different species, often protected, and they do not belong in a starter tank because a shop used the short name.
Do hognose snakes need a humid tank?
No. Aim for 30 to 50 percent. They are burrowers from dry grassland. A swamp setup is how you get blister disease.
Can a hognose live with another snake?
No. One snake per tub. They are not social, and a cage mate can become a meal or a chronic stressor.
Decision Guides for Hognose Snake
Use these only when comparing food, insurance, ownership budget, or beginner fit for this specific pet.