Introduction
Our Hognose Snake care sheet provides all the expert guidance you need to ensure you can effectively look after your Hognose Snake.
The Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus) is a very popular reptile species in captivity. They are generally easy to care for but are considered an intermediate species because they are mildly rear-fanged. A bite may cause a localised reaction similar to a bee sting. Females can reach around 4ft in length, while males are typically smaller.
Hognose snakes may live up to 20 years in captivity, so long-term commitment is essential.
Housing
Hognose snakes are best kept in a high-quality wooden vivarium, which retains heat effectively and provides security.
Because hatchlings are very small and grow gradually over 2–3 years, it is often easier and safer to begin with a dedicated hatchling enclosure before upgrading as they grow.
A well-sized starter enclosure that can house a snake until around 18 months of age is ideal. A 2ft enclosure such as the Monkfield 24" Terrainium works well.
Once your snake is ready for more space, it can be moved directly into its adult home. We recommend a minimum adult size of 90 × 45 × 45cm, although larger enclosures also work very well. Always provide plenty of secure hiding areas, especially for smaller snakes in large spaces.
Hognose snakes should be kept individually except during breeding. Cohabitation is not recommended.
Heating
A basking area of 30–32°C should be provided, with a cooler ambient temperature of 24–28°C throughout the rest of the enclosure. Night-time temperatures should not fall below 18°C.
For smaller snakes, a heat mat with a thermostat is a simple and effective heating method, especially in terrainiums. Temperatures should always be monitored using a digital thermometer.
For larger snakes and full vivarium setups, ceramic heaters offer excellent warmth. These must always be enclosed in a guard and controlled using a pulse or dimming thermostat to prevent burns.
Arcadia Deep Heat Projectors have become increasingly popular. They produce Infra-Red-B heat that penetrates deeply and warms décor below, helping maintain consistent temperatures. Overhead heat also reduces the risks associated with heat mats under deep substrate.
Lighting
UVB lighting is now widely recognised as beneficial for Hognose Snakes. A UV Index of 1–2, with access to full shade, is ideal.
For smaller enclosures, an Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 provides the correct UVI at 25–40cm. In a terrainium setup, the Mini-UV kit may be more suitable due to its lower-output reflector, ideal for 15–20cm distances.
For larger enclosures, a reflected Arcadia 6% T8 tube works well. Alternatively, a 6% T5 or ProT5 kit is ideal where 40–45cm of height is available.
Lighting should run for 12–14 hours daily and be switched off at night.
Humidity
Hognose Snakes originate from relatively dry habitats, so a low-humidity setup is preferred. Humidity can be monitored at the cool end if desired, but most UK homes naturally fall within a suitable range when enclosures are properly ventilated.
A moist hide filled with damp sphagnum moss is recommended, particularly for hatchlings or during shedding.
Decoration
Vivarium décor is essential for both enrichment and security. Provide at least one hide on both the warm and cool ends of the enclosure.
Branches, cork, rocks, resin décor and artificial plants all create climbing and hiding opportunities. Hognose Snakes are surprisingly active—especially at night—and will make full use of well-structured environments.
Food
Hognose Snakes should be fed appropriately sized, fully defrosted mice or rats. Please refer to our separate Snake Feeding Guide for detailed advice on prey size, frequency and feeding methods.
Most Hognose Snakes also show a strong preference for the new Arcadia EvoRx range, which offers a clean, convenient alternative to frozen rodents. These nutritionally balanced whole-prey substitutes can be particularly useful for fussy feeders, keepers who prefer not to handle frozen rodents, or as an occasional variation within a standard feeding routine.
Water
Fresh drinking water should be available at all times in a shallow, sturdy bowl and refreshed daily.
Cleaning and Hygiene
Spot clean daily to remove waste, and perform a full clean every 4–6 weeks, replacing substrate and cleaning décor where safe to do so.
Like all reptiles, hognose snakes may carry bacteria (including salmonella), worms or parasites. Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling or cleaning.
Annual faecal checks are recommended, or sooner if you notice loose stools or other signs of concern. Diagnostic services are available from PALS Veterinary Laboratory.
Your Responsibilities
This care sheet provides a general overview of common questions relating to Hognose Snake care. There are often multiple ways to achieve effective husbandry, and advice may evolve as research advances and equipment improves.
As a pet owner, you are legally responsible for ensuring your animal receives:
- Freedom from hunger or thirst — fresh water and an appropriate diet
- Freedom from discomfort — suitable housing and environmental conditions
- Freedom from pain, injury or disease — prevention, diagnosis and treatment of health issues
- Freedom to express normal behaviour — adequate space, décor and enrichment
- Freedom from fear and distress — appropriate handling and a stable environment
If in doubt, always seek professional or veterinary advice.
Disclaimer: This care sheet is provided as a general guide based on our experience. Advice may vary between keepers, and best practices may change as new research becomes available. Always conduct additional research and consult professional or veterinary guidance where necessary. We will endeavour to keep this information up to date as husbandry knowledge develops.
If you have other reptiles, be sure to check out our full range of care sheets, including Bearded Dragon, Leopard Gecko, Crested Gecko, Giant African Land Snail, Hermann's Tortoise & Corn Snake
