Looking for a new pet snake as a beginner can be a challenge. There are a variety of species available, all with their own unique quirks and appearances. However, there are certain types of snakes that first-timers tend to gravitate to, and for good reason.
With this list, we will be examining certain species of snakes that are commonly kept as pets, and the traits that make them unique companion animals for certain households.
Ball Python
Ball pythons are a constrictor originating from west and central Africa. Their overall gentle disposition, wonderful array of morphs, and manageable size make them exceedingly popular pets. They also have the wonderful quirk of “balling up” (hence their name) when perching on their owners arms, creating a unique sensation.
Dwarf Boas
While some boa species reach lengths of up to 10 feet, dwarf boas stay at a manageable three feet, and rarely exceed five. This is due to the fact that they originate from geographic areas where a shortage of larger prey sizes favored animals that stay small and need less food intake.
Dwarf boas are known to change color, shifting between light and dark depending on the time of day, making them especially unique among collectors. Like many other snakes on this list, they are long lived with the average lifespan in captivity exceeding 20 years.
Corn Snakes
The low-key, relaxed disposition and variety of morphs (over 800), make this snake highly sought after in the pet trade. As these snakes grow, they tend to show brighter coloring. While these snakes are semi-arboreal, they would prefer to hunker down in an underground burrow. In fact, you may find your snake hiding for the first few days after bringing it home until it’s more comfortable with you.
King Snakes
Like the previous entry, the king snake is native to the eastern US. However, they occupy a slightly different ecological niche due to the fact that they tend to prey on other snakes. Despite that, they are completely harmless to humans, and are known to do well in captivity.
Rat Snakes
Being one of the most commonly acquired snakes for sale, rat snakes are known for their importance in controlling pest populations and relaxed temperaments that make them good pets.
These snakes also demonstrate the unique behavior of “denning” with other snakes when it gets cold, making them one of the most social snakes among this bunch.
When threatened, rat snakes may “rattle” the tips of their tails in an intimidation attempt. However, these snakes would much rather hide than confront a potential threat.
The Benefits of Keeping a Pet Snake
While snakes may not be the first animal that comes to mind when considering a pet, they can actually make fantastic companions for the right household. In addition to being low maintenance, they can also be fascinating creatures to observe and interact with.
One of the main benefits of keeping a pet snake is that they are typically low maintenance. Unlike dogs or cats, snakes don’t require daily walks or extensive grooming. They also don’t require large amounts of space, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers or those with limited living space.
Snakes can also be fascinating creatures to watch and interact with. Many species have unique behaviors and quirks, such as the ball python’s habit of “balling up” or the rat snake’s tendency to den with other snakes in cold weather. Observing these behaviors can be both educational and entertaining.
Another benefit of keeping a pet snake is that they can be a great conversation starter. Many people are fascinated by snakes and are eager to learn more about them. This can lead to interesting discussions and connections with other people who share your interest in these unique animals.
Finally, keeping a pet snake can be a rewarding experience. As with any pet, there is a certain amount of responsibility involved in caring for a snake. However, with proper care and attention, you can develop a strong bond with your pet and enjoy many years of companionship.
Wrapping Up
When choosing a snake for sale as a beginner, it is important to examine why certain species are so popular in the first place. There’s a reason why smaller, even tempered and pretty constrictors tend to make the most popular snakes. As long as you do your homework, and take the proper steps to ensure that your snake will have a safe and enriching environment, you will have years of success with your new pet.
Read More: Fledgling’s Guide to Reptiles as Pets
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