If you're looking for a small snake pet, you're in luck. Smaller snake species are popular for a variety of reasons—they are easier to care for, require less space, and are typically more manageable in terms of handling and feeding. Whether you're a first-time snake owner or an experienced enthusiast, choosing a small snake as a pet can be an excellent choice. In this guide, we'll explore the best small snake pets, their care requirements, and everything you need to know to provide the best home for your slithering companion.
Why Choose a Small Snake Pet?
Small snake species are ideal for a number of reasons:
- Space-Efficient: Small snakes do not require as much room as larger snakes. This makes them perfect for people who have limited space in their homes.
- Easier to Handle: Smaller snakes are generally more manageable and easier to handle, which is ideal for first-time snake owners or those who prefer a less intimidating reptile.
- Low Maintenance: Small snakes often have simpler care needs compared to larger species, which makes them easier to maintain. They tend to eat smaller prey and require less space for their enclosure.
- Less Expensive: Smaller snakes generally cost less to purchase and maintain. Their enclosures, heating requirements, and food costs are all more affordable compared to larger species.
Now that you know the benefits of owning a small snake, let’s dive into some of the best small snake pets.
Best Small Snake Pets
Here are some of the best small snake species to consider if you want a compact, manageable, and low-maintenance pet snake:
1. Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
- Size: 3-5 feet
- Temperament: Friendly, calm, and active
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Care Level: Easy
The Corn Snake is one of the most popular small snake pets, known for its vibrant color variations and docile nature. Corn snakes are non-venomous constrictors that are perfect for both beginners and intermediate reptile enthusiasts. They are active and enjoy climbing and exploring their enclosures.
Corn snakes are typically around 3-5 feet long, making them a manageable size for small spaces. They have easy dietary needs, feeding on rodents like mice or rats. These snakes are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to habitat setup, requiring a 20-30 gallon enclosure with appropriate heating and humidity.
2. California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae)
- Size: 3-4 feet
- Temperament: Active, curious, and tame
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Care Level: Easy
The California Kingsnake is another small snake species known for its striking appearance and easygoing nature. They are non-venomous constrictors that come in a variety of color morphs, such as black and white or striped patterns. California Kingsnakes are active, curious, and enjoy interacting with their surroundings.
Although they can grow to be 3-4 feet long, California Kingsnakes are still considered small by many reptile standards. They are hardy and adaptable, requiring a simple habitat setup with a secure lid to prevent escape. Like corn snakes, they typically eat rodents.
3. Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
- Size: 18-30 inches
- Temperament: Calm, active, and curious
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
- Care Level: Easy
The Garter Snake is one of the smallest snake species, usually only reaching 18-30 inches in length. Garter snakes are very common as pets due to their small size, active nature, and relatively low-maintenance care requirements. They are non-venomous and typically feed on smaller prey like worms, insects, and fish.
Garter snakes are a bit more active than other small snakes, so they may enjoy exploring their enclosures more. They can also thrive in a relatively simple setup, with some natural plants and a few hiding spots.
4. Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)
- Size: 3-4 feet
- Temperament: Calm, shy, and gentle
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Care Level: Moderate
The Rough Green Snake is a small, slender species that is known for its vibrant green coloration and calm demeanor. Although they are slightly more skittish than some other small snakes, they are still great pets due to their non-aggressive nature. Rough Green Snakes are arboreal, meaning they enjoy climbing, so it’s essential to provide vertical space in their enclosure.
These snakes primarily feed on insects, such as crickets and grasshoppers. Due to their insectivorous diet and arboreal lifestyle, they require a specialized setup with appropriate humidity, temperature, and climbing structures.
5. Ball Python (Python regius)
- Size: 3-5 feet
- Temperament: Calm, shy, and docile
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
While Ball Pythons are not as small as some of the other species listed, they are still relatively compact compared to other pythons and boas. Ball pythons are known for their docile and shy temperament, making them one of the most popular pet snakes. They grow to an average size of 3-5 feet, which is manageable for most pet owners.
Ball pythons are non-aggressive constrictors that feed on rodents such as rats and mice. They are low-maintenance in terms of care requirements, needing a temperature gradient of around 75-85°F and a humidity level of 50-60%. These snakes are particularly popular among beginners due to their gentle nature and manageable size.
6. Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
- Size: 2-4 feet
- Temperament: Active, curious, and gentle
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Care Level: Moderate
The Milk Snake is a small, colorful snake that resembles the venomous coral snake but is entirely harmless. They are known for their beautiful, bright colors and stripes, which make them visually striking. Milk snakes are also non-venomous and are constrictors that feed on small rodents, birds, and amphibians.
Milk snakes are relatively easy to care for, although they do require a bit more space than some of the other small species, as they tend to be active and enjoy climbing. They typically grow between 2-4 feet in length and make great pets for owners who enjoy interacting with their snakes.
How to Care for Small Snakes
No matter which small snake pet you choose, they all have some basic care requirements that must be met for them to thrive. Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know when caring for small pet snakes:
1. Enclosure
- Size: A 20-30 gallon tank is usually sufficient for small snakes. Larger species may require a larger enclosure.
- Substrate: Use a soft, absorbent material like coconut husk, aspen shavings, or cypress mulch.
- Hiding Spots: Provide at least one or two hiding places in the enclosure to help your snake feel secure.
- Climbing Structures: For arboreal species like the Rough Green Snake, provide branches or vines to climb.
2. Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: Maintain a warm side of the enclosure around 80-85°F with a cooler side at 75°F. Use a heat lamp or under-tank heater.
- Humidity: Depending on the species, the humidity should range from 40-60%. Make sure to research the specific needs of your snake.
3. Diet
Most small pet snakes are insectivorous or carnivorous, with diets typically consisting of mice, rats, or insects. Ensure the food you offer is appropriately sized for your snake and that it’s pre-killed or frozen to avoid injury.
4. Handling
Small snakes are generally easier to handle due to their size, but always be gentle and supportive. Avoid grabbing them by the tail or forcing them to interact if they seem stressed. Regular handling will help build trust and ensure your snake remains tame.
Conclusion
A small snake pet can be a fantastic addition to your home, offering you the chance to enjoy the unique beauty and charm of these fascinating reptiles. Whether you choose a Corn Snake, Ball Python, or a Garter Snake, you’ll find that smaller species are easier to care for, easier to handle, and require less space than larger snakes.
Before choosing your small snake, make sure to research the specific care requirements for the species you’re interested in. By providing the right habitat, diet, and care, your small snake will thrive and become a beloved companion for years to come.