Blue snakes are a rare and striking choice for reptile enthusiasts, thanks to their unique coloration. If you’re interested in a blue snake pet, you’re in for a treat! While naturally occurring blue snakes are quite uncommon, certain species exhibit beautiful blue hues that make them highly sought after by collectors and pet owners. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular blue snake species, their care requirements, and why they make such captivating pets.

What Makes a Snake "Blue"?

It's important to note that true blue snakes are quite rare in the reptile world. Most snakes that appear blue are either iridescent or have a blue tint due to the way light interacts with their scales. These snakes can range in color from bright blue to a more subdued, bluish-gray, and can create a stunning visual effect as they move.

There are a few species that are most commonly associated with blue or blue-tinted scales, making them great options for anyone looking for a blue snake pet.

1. Blue Beauty Rat Snake (Elaphe taeniura)

One of the most popular choices for a blue snake pet is the Blue Beauty Rat Snake. This snake has become well-loved for its striking color and docile temperament.

• Size: Blue Beauty Rat Snakes typically grow between 4 to 6 feet in length, with some individuals reaching up to 8 feet.
• Appearance: These snakes have a beautiful iridescent blue sheen that becomes even more pronounced in the right lighting. They usually have a black or dark gray body with bright blue highlights along their sides and back.
• Temperament: The Blue Beauty Rat Snake is relatively calm and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for snake owners of all experience levels.
• Care Requirements: They require a spacious enclosure with plenty of hiding places. They thrive in a temperature range of 75-85°F (24-29°C), with a basking spot around 90°F (32°C). They are arboreal, so providing branches or shelves for climbing can help enrich their environment.
• Diet: Blue Beauty Rat Snakes feed primarily on rodents, such as mice and rats, and should be fed every 7-10 days.

2. Indigo Snake (Drymarchon couperi)

The Indigo Snake is another beautiful, blue-tinged species that is sought after for both its size and striking appearance. Though indigo snakes aren’t a bright blue, they have a deep, rich, bluish-black color that gives them a gorgeous, shiny look.

• Size: Indigo snakes are large, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 8 feet, though they typically range from 5 to 7 feet.
• Appearance: These snakes have a metallic, dark blue-black color with a smooth, shiny appearance, which is one of the reasons they are considered one of the most stunning snake species.
• Temperament: Indigo snakes are typically gentle and can become tame with regular handling. However, they are known to be quite active and can be more challenging to handle than smaller species.
• Care Requirements: Indigo snakes need a spacious enclosure, with a temperature gradient of 75-85°F (24-29°C) and a basking area of around 90°F (32°C). They also benefit from climbing opportunities, though they are primarily terrestrial.
• Diet: Indigo snakes are carnivores and feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, and amphibians. They can be fed once a week, with larger meals less frequently.

3. Blue Snake Morphs (Ball Python, Corn Snake, etc.)

While blue snakes are not common in nature, some snake species have been selectively bred to produce blue morphs. These morphs often have a subtle blue tint, giving the impression of a blue snake. Some species that come in blue morphs include:

• Ball Pythons: While naturally occurring Ball Pythons are not blue, there are several blue morphs available in the pet trade. The Blue Ghost Ball Python is one of the most popular, with a muted blue-gray coloration. These snakes can reach 3-5 feet in length.
• Corn Snakes: Corn snakes are available in various color morphs, including some that feature a bluish-gray or silvery tint, such as the Blue Snow Corn Snake.

These morphs can be a great option for someone looking for a snake that has the appearance of being blue, though they are not truly blue.

4. Blue-Tongue Skink (Tiliqua spp.)

Though not a snake, the Blue-Tongue Skink deserves mention as a popular reptile with a “blue” feature that many pet owners find captivating. Known for its vibrant blue tongue, these lizards have become increasingly popular as pets.

• Size: Blue-tongue skinks typically grow to around 18-24 inches (45-60 cm), making them a manageable size for most pet owners.
• Appearance: These skinks have a variety of colorations, but they are most famous for their blue tongue, which they stick out when threatened. The body color can range from brown to gray, with some species displaying blue or blue-gray hues.
• Temperament: Blue-tongue skinks are known for being friendly and easy to handle, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
• Care Requirements: These skinks need a spacious enclosure with a warm, dry environment. They should have access to a basking area with temperatures between 95°F (35°C) and 100°F (38°C), and a cooler area around 75°F (24°C).
• Diet: They are omnivores and can be fed a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, and insects.

5. Other Notable Blue-Tinted Snakes

While true blue snakes are rare, there are several species of snakes that can have a blue appearance depending on the lighting and their natural color variation. These species may not be solid blue but can display stunning blue hues:

• Mexican Black Kingsnake: While not blue, this snake has a striking black sheen that may appear blue under certain lighting conditions.
• Eastern Blue Racer: This species of racer, found in parts of the U.S., has a bluish tint to its body, giving it the appearance of a blue snake.

Caring for Your Blue Snake Pet

Once you’ve selected your blue snake pet, proper care is essential to ensure its health and well-being. Here are some general tips for caring for your new snake:

• Enclosure Size: Make sure the enclosure is spacious enough for your snake to move around comfortably. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least one and a half times the length of the snake. A 20-gallon to 40-gallon tank is ideal for most small to medium-sized snakes.
• Temperature and Humidity: Most blue snakes need a temperature gradient, with a warm basking area of around 85-90°F (29-32°C) and a cooler side around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Depending on the species, you may also need to adjust humidity levels.
• Substrate: Choose a substrate that allows the snake to burrow and feel secure, such as aspen bedding, coconut husk, or cypress mulch.
• Feeding: Blue snakes are generally fed once a week or every 10 days, depending on their size and species. Offer appropriately-sized prey, usually small rodents like mice or rats, and ensure that any food is thawed if frozen.
• Handling: Most blue snakes are relatively docile and can tolerate handling. However, be gentle and avoid over-handling to reduce stress on the animal.

Conclusion

A blue snake pet is a rare and beautiful addition to any reptile enthusiast’s collection. While true blue snakes are not very common in nature, there are several species with blue or blue-tinted scales, such as the Blue Beauty Rat Snake and Indigo Snake, that can make stunning pets. For those interested in more manageable options, blue morphs of Ball Pythons and Corn Snakes offer an excellent compromise with their cool blue hues.

With the right care, a blue snake pet can thrive in your home, providing years of companionship and a striking visual appeal. Make sure to choose a species that matches your experience level, and always provide the proper environment and diet to keep your snake healthy and happy.