Petite Serpents Guide: Snakes That Stay Small

“In the smallest of creatures, the greatest lessons can be found.” – Sir David Attenborough

Welcome to our Petite Serpents Guide, where we explore the fascinating world of snakes that stay small. These miniature snake breeds are perfect for those looking to keep a pet snake but have limited space or are new to reptile keeping. Despite their small size, these tiny snake species offer unique beauty, docile temperaments, and low maintenance requirements.

Keeping small snakes can be a rewarding experience. They don’t require as much space as their larger counterparts, making them suitable for apartments or small homes. Their manageable size also means they are easier to handle and care for, making them a great choice for beginners in snake keeping. From the rosy boa to the ball python, we’ll guide you through the best small snakes to consider as your new household companion.

Key Takeaways:

• Snakes that stay small are ideal for those with limited space or beginners in reptile keeping.
• Small snake breeds have manageable sizes, docile temperaments, and low maintenance requirements.
• Recommended small pet snake breeds include the rosy boa, ball python, ringneck snake, western hognose snake, corn snake, scarlet king snake, California king snake, milk snake, garter snake, gopher snake, and sand boa.
• Before getting a pet snake, be prepared for a long term commitment and consider factors such as their carnivorous diet and the need for escape-proof enclosures.
• Keeping a small snake can be a rewarding experience with virtually no odor, as they defecate and urinate infrequently and in controlled areas.

What You Should Know Before Getting a Pet Snake

Before getting a pet snake, there are several important factors to consider. Snakes are fascinating creatures but require specific care to thrive in captivity. Here are some essential things you need to know:

Long Term Commitment

Snakes are long-lived pets, often exceeding 20 years in captivity. Owning a snake is a commitment that spans decades, so be prepared for a long term commitment when bringing one into your home.

Carnivorous Diet

Snakes are carnivores and require a diet of prey animals, predominantly mice or other small rodents. You can feed them frozen or thawed rodents, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for many snake owners.

Captive Bred Snakes

When purchasing a pet snake, it is recommended to choose captive bred snakes from reputable breeders. Captive bred snakes are generally healthier and more acclimated to captivity than wild-caught ones.

Escape-Proof Enclosures

Snake enclosures should be escape-proof to prevent any accidental escapes. It is important to choose enclosures with locked doors and sealed roofs.

Signs of Bad Health

When selecting a snake, look for signs of good health, such as clear nostrils and bright eyes. Avoid snakes exhibiting physical abnormalities or signs of stress, such as lethargy or excessive aggression.

Feeding Demonstration

Requesting a feeding demonstration, especially for ball pythons, can ensure that the snake is feeding well and has a healthy appetite.

Rewarding Experience

Keeping snakes can be a rewarding experience. They are low maintenance pets, defecating and urinating infrequently and in controlled areas. This makes them virtually odor-free pets.

Now that you are aware of these crucial aspects, you will be better prepared to provide the necessary care and environment for your pet snake. Remember, with proper care and attention, owning a pet snake can be a rewarding experience that lasts for many years.

The 20 Smallest and Best Pet Snake Breeds

There are many small snake breeds that make excellent pets for beginners. Some of the smallest and best pet snake breeds include the rosy boa, ball python, ringneck snake, western hognose snake, corn snake, scarlet king snake, California king snake, milk snake, garter snake, gopher snake, and sand boa. These snakes have manageable sizes, generally not exceeding 3-5 feet in length, and are known for their docile temperaments and ease of care. They are non-venomous and suitable for beginners who are interested in keeping small snakes.

When it comes to choosing a pet snake, size is an important factor to consider. Smaller snake breeds are easier to handle, require less space, and generally have lower maintenance requirements compared to larger snake species. Whether you are a beginner or a reptile enthusiast looking for a compact pet snake, these 20 breeds offer a variety of options to suit different preferences and lifestyles.

Here are the 20 smallest and best pet snake breeds:

1. Rosy Boa
2. Ball Python
3. Ringneck Snake
4. Western Hognose Snake
5. Corn Snake
6. Scarlet King Snake
7. California King Snake
8. Milk Snake
9. Garter Snake
10. Gopher Snake
11. Sand Boa

Each of these snake breeds offers unique characteristics and features that make them popular choices among snake enthusiasts. Whether you are attracted to the vibrant colors of the milk snake, the gentle nature of the rosy boa, or the wide variety of color morphs available in the ball python, there is a small snake breed that will suit your preferences.

In the next sections, we will explore each of these snake breeds in more detail, highlighting their characteristics, care requirements, and what makes them great choices for pet snake owners. So let’s dive in and discover the fascinating world of these small but captivating serpents!

Rosy Boa

If you’re looking for a small snake breed with an affordable price and a docile temperament, the rosy boa is an excellent choice. These small snakes typically reach a length of 2-3 feet, making them manageable and perfect for pet owners with limited space.

One of the advantages of owning a rosy boa is that they are relatively easy to care for. Their docile nature makes handling and maintenance a breeze, even for first-time snake owners. With the right care, rosy boas can live up to 25 years, providing years of companionship.

A 20-gallon enclosure is suitable for a rosy boa, providing enough space for them to move around comfortably. As an added bonus, rosy boas come in a variety of morphs, with different colors and patterns. These unique morphs make owning a rosy boa an exciting and visually appealing experience. Take a look at the image below to see the stunning variety of morphs available for rosy boas:

If you’re interested in a small snake breed that offers affordability, a docile temperament, and a variety of morph options, then the rosy boa is the perfect choice for you.

Ball Python

The ball python, also known as Python regius, is the most popular pet snake in the United States. These beautiful creatures are sought after for their striking appearance and gentle temperament. With their wide variety of color morphs, ball pythons come in an array of stunning patterns to suit every snake lover’s taste.

Ball pythons are relatively small snakes, with males typically reaching lengths of 2 to 3 feet and females growing slightly larger at 3 to 5 feet. This manageable size makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts.

If you’re considering getting a ball python as a pet, it’s essential to provide them with a suitable habitat. A 40-gallon enclosure is recommended to ensure they have ample space to explore and feel secure. Additionally, ball pythons have specific humidity requirements due to their natural habitat in central and western Africa. Maintaining a high humidity level in the enclosure is crucial for their health and well-being.

One of the remarkable characteristics of ball pythons is their even temperament. They are generally docile and easy to handle, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a pet snake that is calm and manageable.

With proper care, ball pythons can live for over 30 years in captivity. This long lifespan means that they can be faithful companions for many years to come. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reptile keeper, the ball python is sure to bring joy and fascination to your life.

Ringneck Snake

If you’re looking for a compact and unique pet snake, the ringneck snake is a perfect choice. Despite its small size, this tiny snake species is often mistaken for worms due to its diminutive proportions.

The ringneck snake is typically black or dark brown in color and features a distinctive orange necklace encircling its neck, adding a touch of vibrancy to its appearance. Fully grown, these snakes measure only about 15 inches in length and are rarely thicker than a pencil.

However, don’t let their small size fool you. Ringneck snakes are excellent escape artists and require secure enclosures to prevent any Houdini-like escapes. Their agility and ability to squeeze through narrow gaps make them masters of evasion.

The Distinctive Appearance of Ringneck Snakes

One of the fascinating features of the ringneck snake is its distinctive orange necklace. This bold and eye-catching marking encircles the neck of the snake, standing out against its dark-colored body. The contrast between the vibrant orange and the snake’s overall coloration makes it a visually striking species.

The Small Size and Escape Artistry of Ringneck Snakes

The ringneck snake’s small size is one of its defining characteristics. Measuring at only 15 inches, they are perfect for those seeking a compact pet snake that won’t require excessive space. Their diminutive stature also makes them easier to handle and maneuver.

However, their small size comes with a downside – their excellent escape artist abilities. Ringneck snakes can wriggle their way through tiny openings, making it vital to have a meticulously secure enclosure if you decide to keep one as a pet.

Despite their small size and escape artist tendencies, ringneck snakes make fascinating and visually appealing pets for those looking for something unique.

Western Hognose Snake

The western hognose snake is a fascinating and popular choice for beginner snake enthusiasts. Known for its distinctive upturned snout, this small snake species captivates with its unique appearance and gentle nature. With a length ranging from 2 to 3 feet, the western hognose snake is the perfect size for those looking for a compact pet.

One of the interesting characteristics of the western hognose snake is its mild venom. While it uses this venom to subdue its prey, including small animals like frogs and toads, it poses no danger to humans. This makes the western hognose snake a safe and enjoyable pet for beginners.

Another intriguing aspect of the western hognose snake is its burrowing behavior. These snakes are known to dig and create burrows in the wild, making them skilled excavators. Providing proper substrate and hiding spots in their enclosure allows them to exhibit their natural burrowing instincts, enriching their environment.

The western hognose snake comes in a variety of colors and patterns, adding visual appeal to any snake collection. From vibrant oranges and yellows to striking browns and blacks, these snakes showcase an array of stunning color combinations. Whether you prefer a classic or rare morph, there is a western hognose snake to suit every taste.

If you’re considering getting a snake as a pet, the western hognose snake is an excellent choice. Its manageable size, mild venom, and burrowing behavior make it a great option for beginners. With its fascinating appearance and docile temperament, the western hognose snake is sure to captivate both snake enthusiasts and novices alike.

Corn Snake

The corn snake is a popular choice among beginner snake keepers due to its docile nature and ease of care. These small and manageable snakes make excellent pets for those new to reptile keeping.

One of the standout features of corn snakes is their variety of color and pattern mutations. Thanks to selective breeding efforts, you can find corn snakes in a wide range of stunning colors and unique patterns, such as amelanistic, snow, anerythristic, and ghost morphs.

When it comes to their size, corn snakes are considered medium-sized snakes, typically exceeding 3 feet in length and occasionally reaching up to 6 feet. Despite their length, they are relatively slender and easy to handle.

Corn snakes have a rodent-based diet, feeding on pinky mice as hatchlings and progressing to larger prey as they grow. This diet can be easily managed and sourced, making it convenient for snake owners.

Key Features of Corn Snakes:

• Popular beginner snake
• Wide variety of color and pattern mutations
• Medium-sized, reaching up to 6 feet in length
• Rodent-based diet
• Easy to handle

In summary, corn snakes are a popular choice for beginner snake owners due to their docile nature, variety of color and pattern mutations, and ease of care. With their manageable size and straightforward dietary needs, corn snakes provide an enjoyable and rewarding pet ownership experience for reptile enthusiasts.

Milk Snake

Milk snakes are fascinating reptiles known for their colorful patterns, which often mimic the appearance of venomous coral snakes. Despite their vibrant markings, milk snakes are entirely harmless and do not possess any venom.

These snakes come in a wide range of sizes, with subspecies varying from 1 to 6 feet in length. Their diverse diet includes rodents, amphibians, and invertebrates, making them versatile eaters in captivity.

As a beginner snake owner, you’ll appreciate the beautiful and harmless nature of milk snakes. Their striking colors and patterns add a touch of vibrancy to any reptile collection.

With their harmless mimicry of coral snakes, milk snakes are both visually appealing and safe to handle. They provide snake enthusiasts with an opportunity to observe the beauty of nature without any concerns about venomous bites.

Now that you’ve learned about milk snakes, let’s move on to section 10, where we’ll explore garter and ribbon snakes, two more small and harmless snake species.

Garter and Ribbon Snakes

Garter snakes and ribbon snakes are small and harmless snake species that are commonly found in North America. These snakes rarely measure longer than 39 inches and have distinguishing features such as longitudinal stripes and checkered splotches of color. Garter snakes have stockier bodies compared to ribbon snakes, while ribbon snakes have longer tails and narrower heads.

The diet of garter snakes and ribbon snakes is varied and includes insects, amphibians, fish, and earthworms. They are skilled hunters and use their keen senses to locate and capture their prey. This diet makes them beneficial to have in gardens, as they help control populations of pests like slugs and grasshoppers. Garter and ribbon snakes are often found near water sources, as they are also excellent swimmers and may hunt for fish and frogs in aquatic habitats.

Garter snakes and ribbon snakes are great options for those who prefer a smaller, non-venomous snake. They are harmless to humans and make fascinating pets due to their small size, docile temperament, and interesting hunting behaviors.

If you’re considering keeping a garter snake or ribbon snake as a pet, it’s important to create a suitable habitat that mimics their natural environment. Providing a secure enclosure with hiding spots, branches, and a water source is essential. Garter snakes and ribbon snakes are highly active and require ample space to explore and climb.

Garter and Ribbon Snake Care Guide:

• Habitat: A spacious enclosure with hiding spots, branches, and a water source.
• Temperature: Maintain a temperature gradient of 75-85°F (24-29°C) with a basking spot.
• Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 50-70%.
• Substrate: Use a substrate that retains moisture, such as coconut husk or cypress mulch.
• Feeding: Offer a varied diet of insects, amphibians, fish, and earthworms.
• Handling: Garter snakes and ribbon snakes can be handled but should be done with care and in a calm environment.
• Healthcare: Regularly monitor for signs of illness or injury, and consult a reptile veterinarian as needed.

Remember to always do thorough research and consult reputable sources before bringing any snake species into your home. While garter snakes and ribbon snakes are generally low-maintenance pets, proper care and attention are essential for their well-being.

Water Snakes

Water snakes are a suitable choice for those who prefer a snake that doesn’t eat rodents. These snakes have adapted to an aquatic lifestyle and feed primarily on fish and frogs. They are easily identifiable by their triangular-shaped heads and stout bodies. While some water snakes can have a more aggressive temperament than other snake species, they can adapt to handling with proper care and socialization.

When selecting fish and frogs for their diet, it is important to be cautious as these prey items can carry parasites that may affect the health of water snakes. It is recommended to provide a varied and balanced diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met. Water snakes require an appropriate enclosure that provides access to water for swimming and basking, as well as land areas for rest and thermoregulation.

African Egg-Eating Snakes

African egg-eating snakes are a fascinating choice for those seeking a unique and unconventional pet. Unlike most snakes that rely on a diet of rodents, African egg-eating snakes have evolved a specialized feeding behavior centered around consuming bird eggs. This distinctive adaptation sets them apart from other snake species.

These snakes are non-venomous, docile, and essentially toothless, making them safe and easy to handle. African egg-eating snakes primarily inhabit arboreal habitats, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. Their small size, reaching only about 30 inches in length, makes them ideal for small living spaces.

African egg-eating snakes have the ability to fast between bird nesting seasons, allowing them to naturally adjust their feeding patterns. Despite their unique diet, the availability of finch, quail, and chicken eggs makes it relatively easy to provide suitable food sources for these captivating serpents.

Source Links

• https://onurbicycle.com/2020/05/07/smallest-pet-snakes/
• https://reptile.guide/best-pet-snakes/
• https://reptile.guide/snakes-that-dont-eat-mice/