Snakes are typically associated with evil and are portrayed as slimy, green, and gross. This association is due to many cultures using snakes as creatures of deception and temptation. In movies and television shows, snakes are associated with the antagonists or even the antagonists themselves. Due to this, snakes have been villainized in the real world. Even though these cold-blooded scaly creatures aren’t the cuddliest, they sure do make amazing pets.
First things first, snakes come in all different sizes, not shapes. They’re all noodle-shaped. There are over 3,000 species of snakes, but only some can be kept as pets due to their size, diet, and how venomous they are. The most common snake that is kept as a pet is the ball python. They are non-venomous constrictors that have the cutest face. These snakes come in all different colors, or morphs, depending on their parents. More common morphs, such as mojave or pastel, are typically cheaper when purchasing a snake, but some morphs can cost thousands of dollars. Ball pythons feed on mice and rats, frozen or live depending on what they are started on. Another type of snake that is commonly a pet is a corn snake, also known as a red rat snake. These snakes are also non-venomous constrictors but look very different from ball pythons. These snakes typically are orange or brown-bodied with red splotches on them, giving them a striped sort of appearance. These snakes also eat mice and rats, frozen or live. Overall, a snake’s length depends on their gender. Female snakes are typically larger and longer, while male snakes are smaller and shorter.
Keeping snakes as pets requires a large amount of time, energy, and money. As well as that, some snakes can live up to 30 years in captivity, so it is a big commitment. Snake set-ups require a tank, substrate or bedding, a water dish, heat pads & lamps, and a hide to sleep in. Faux plants and pieces of climbing wood are also encouraged to be kept in hides for enrichment.
One of the most unfortunate things about having a pet snake is that they are not capable of love, like a pet dog or cat. Just because they cannot love their owner does not mean that they do not have a bond with them. Due to their sixth sense, an ability to sense the heat of another creature without touching them, they rely on that as well as their sense of taste and smell to tell who or what is near them. Over time, the snake recognizes the smell of their owner and associates this smell with the feeling of receiving food. The presence of their owner is seen as positive and exciting.
Handling them frequently allows a sense of familiarity between the snake and the owner. This allows the snake to associate being let out of their cage with their owner and being held. Snakes love being out of their cage and exploring the world that is shown to them. They enjoy climbing and finding dark spots to curl up in, like under a chair or blanket. Snakes are very flexible and strong creatures, being able to move their noodle body on their own with no help from arms or legs.
Snakes are very misunderstood creatures and extremely cute once you take a good look at them. While they are more expensive creatures, they are also very low-maintenance, not requiring much besides being handled frequently for about 30 minutes a day. They are also quiet creatures, rarely making a sound. They also keep their tank relatively clean. Don’t pass by the snake section at the pet store, give them a chance!
