🐍 General Info


The Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus) is a small, mildly venomous colubrid native to central North America, ranging from southern Canada through the central United States into northern Mexico. It gets its name from its distinct upturned snout, which it uses for burrowing in sandy soils.


These snakes are known for their dramatic defensive displays—flattening their necks like a cobra, hissing loudly, and even playing dead. Despite these antics, Western Hognoses are harmless to humans, as their mild venom is only effective on amphibian prey.

Western Hognose Snakes are hardy, easy to care for, and full of personality, making them one of the most popular beginner colubrids. Adults typically reach 18–36 inches in length, with females being notably larger than males.


Enclosure


  • Size:

  • Juveniles: 20-gallon long (approximately 24” x 12” x 12”).

  • Adults: Minimum 36” x 18” x 18” enclosure. Larger is always better as long as secure hides are provided.

  • Material: Glass or PVC enclosures with a secure locking lid. PVC tends to hold heat and humidity better, but glass tanks work fine with proper setup.


  • Substrate:

  • Western Hognoses are burrowers — substrate choice is critical.


  • Ideal: Fine sand/soil mix, aspen shavings, or reptile-safe sandy loam.

  • Depth: Provide 3–5 inches for burrowing.

  • Avoid: Cedar or pine, as they release harmful oils.

  • Décor: Include multiple hides (one on the warm side, one on the cool side), rocks, branches, and artificial plants for cover. These snakes love to dig and hide under décor items.


Temperature & Lighting


  • Basking Spot (Warm Side): 88–90°F


  • Cool Side: 75–78°F


  • Ambient Temperature: 78–82°F


  • Night Temperature: Can safely drop to 68–72°F.


  • Heating: Use a heat mat, heat tape, or overhead ceramic heat emitter on one side of the enclosure. Always control with a thermostat to prevent burns or overheating.


  • UVB Lighting: Not strictly required, but low-level UVB (5–7%) is beneficial for natural circadian rhythm and overall health. Replace UVB bulbs every 6–12 months per manufacturer’s instructions.


  • Day/Night Cycle: 12–14 hours of light during the day and darkness at night. Western Hognoses are diurnal, meaning they are active mostly during the day.


Humidity & Water


  • Humidity: 30–50% Western Hognoses prefer a dry environment, but you can slightly raise humidity (to 50–60%) during shedding. Proper ventilation is key—too much humidity can cause respiratory issues.


  • Water: Provide a shallow water dish large enough for drinking but not necessarily soaking (most hognoses rarely soak). Change the water daily and keep the bowl clean.


  • Shedding Tip: Offer a humid hide with moist sphagnum moss when your snake’s eyes turn cloudy to help with smooth shedding.


Diet


  • Type: Carnivorous — primarily feeds on rodents in captivity, though wild hognoses often eat amphibians and reptiles.


  • Staple Foods:

  • Hatchlings: Pinky mice every 5–7 days.

  • Juveniles: Fuzzy mice every 7–10 days.

  • Adults: Adult mice every 10–14 days.

  • Feeding Methods:

  • Offer frozen-thawed prey warmed to body temperature.

  • Size prey roughly equal to the widest part of the snake’s body.

  • Hognoses can be picky eaters, especially young ones. Try offering unscented, toad-scented, or tuna-scented pinkies if your snake refuses food.

  • Supplements: None needed when feeding whole prey.


  • Hydration: Always provide clean, fresh water. They generally prefer to drink from a dish rather than soak.


Behavior & Handling


  • Temperament: Western Hognoses are known for their feisty personalities and unique defensive behaviors. They may hiss, flatten their heads, or play dead — but rarely bite. Most individuals are docile and easy to handle once accustomed to routine interaction.


  • Handling:

  • Start slowly and let your snake get used to your scent.

  • Handle gently, supporting the body fully.

  • Avoid handling for 48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.

  • Don’t react to bluff displays—just stay calm and confident.

  • Enrichment: Offer different textures, tunnels, and rearranged décor occasionally to encourage exploration. They enjoy burrowing and investigating new hiding spots.


Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity, with some living over 22 years with proper care.


  • Common Health Issues:

  • Respiratory Infections: Caused by excessive humidity or low temps. Keep ventilation good and temps stable.

  • Retained Shed: Ensure adequate humidity during shedding periods.

  • Obesity: Hognoses love food; feed appropriate portion sizes and avoid overfeeding.

  • Feeding Refusal: Common during breeding season or winter—usually temporary.

  • Impaction: Avoid feeding on loose, dusty substrate and ensure proper hydration.

Final Note: Western Hognose Snakes are one of the most fun, personality-filled, and beginner-friendly reptiles you can own. Their expressive faces, comical behaviors, and manageable size make them a joy to care for. With proper heat, humidity, and a well-maintained diet, your hognose will thrive and become a confident, curious, and long-lived companion.