Hognose Snakes For Sale: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to buy a hognose snake? Hognose snakes are becoming increasingly popular pets due to their docile nature and unique appearance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about finding hognose snakes for sale, including where to buy them, what to look for, and how to ensure you're getting a healthy snake.

What is a Hognose Snake?

Hognose snakes are small, non-venomous snakes native to North America and parts of Mexico. They get their name from their upturned snout, which they use for digging in the soil. These snakes are known for their dramatic defense displays, which include flattening their bodies, hissing loudly, and even playing dead. However, they are generally docile and rarely bite.

Why Choose a Hognose Snake?

Docile Temperament

Hognose snakes are known for their gentle nature, making them a great choice for beginner snake owners.

Manageable Size

These snakes typically grow to be between 2 to 3 feet long, making them easy to handle and house.

Unique Appearance

With their upturned snouts and variety of color morphs, hognose snakes are visually appealing pets.

Where to Buy Hognose Snakes

Reputable Breeders

Buying from a reputable breeder is one of the best ways to ensure you are getting a healthy, well-cared-for snake. Breeders often specialize in specific morphs and can provide detailed information about the snake's genetics and history.

Reptile Expos

Reptile expos are a great place to meet breeders and see a wide variety of hognose snakes in person. This allows you to ask questions and assess the snake's health and temperament before making a purchase.

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces, such as MorphMarket, offer a convenient way to find hognose snakes for sale. However, it's crucial to do your research and ensure you are buying from a reputable seller.

Pet Stores

While some pet stores may sell hognose snakes, it's important to check their reputation and the conditions in which the snakes are kept. Pet store employees may not have the specialized knowledge of a breeder.

What to Look for When Buying a Hognose Snake

Overall Health

A healthy hognose snake should have clear eyes, a clean vent, and be free from any visible injuries or skin issues.

Temperament

The snake should appear alert and curious. While hognose snakes may hiss and flatten their bodies as a defense mechanism, they should not be overly aggressive.

Feeding History

Ask the seller about the snake's feeding habits. A healthy hognose snake should have a consistent feeding schedule and readily accept appropriately sized prey.

Proper Setup

Ensure the snake has been kept in a proper enclosure with appropriate temperature and humidity levels. This is a good indication of the seller's care practices.

Hognose Snake Morphs

Hognose snakes come in a variety of color and pattern morphs, making them even more appealing to reptile enthusiasts. Some popular morphs include:

• Albino
• Anaconda
• Axanthic
• Lavender
• Toffee
• Superconda

Setting Up a Hognose Snake Enclosure

Enclosure Size

A 20-gallon tank is generally sufficient for an adult hognose snake. However, larger enclosures can provide more space for enrichment.

Substrate

Aspen shavings, reptile-safe soil, or a mix of both are good choices for substrate. These allow the snake to burrow, which is a natural behavior.

Temperature Gradient

Hognose snakes need a temperature gradient in their enclosure. The warm side should be around 90-95°F (32-35°C), and the cool side should be around 75-80°F (24-27°C).

Humidity

Hognose snakes prefer low humidity levels, around 30-50%. Overly humid conditions can lead to respiratory issues.

Hides

Provide at least two hides, one on the warm side and one on the cool side, so the snake feels secure. — UT Austin Football: News, Scores & More

Water Dish

A shallow water dish should be available at all times for drinking and soaking.

Feeding Hognose Snakes

Diet

Hognose snakes primarily eat rodents. Frozen-thawed mice are the most common food source for pet hognose snakes.

Feeding Schedule

Young hognose snakes should be fed every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed every 7-10 days.

Feeding Issues

Some hognose snakes can be picky eaters. If your snake is refusing to eat, try offering different sizes or colors of mice, or scenting the prey with a lizard scent.

Common Health Issues in Hognose Snakes

Respiratory Infections

Symptoms include wheezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels can help prevent respiratory infections.

Scale Rot

Scale rot is a bacterial infection that can occur in overly humid conditions. Symptoms include discolored or blistered scales.

Mites

Mites are external parasites that can cause itching and skin irritation. Regular cleaning of the enclosure and the use of reptile-safe mite treatments can help prevent mite infestations. — Oregon State Football: Your 2024 Guide

Regurgitation

Regurgitation can be caused by stress, improper temperature, or feeding the snake prey that is too large. Ensure the snake is kept in a stress-free environment and fed appropriately sized meals. — Bucks Vs Spurs Tickets: Your Ultimate Guide

Legal Considerations

Before buying a hognose snake, it's important to check your local and state laws regarding reptile ownership. Some areas may have restrictions on certain species or require permits.

FAQs

Are hognose snakes good for beginners?

Yes, hognose snakes are generally docile and easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner snake owners.

How much do hognose snakes cost?

The cost of a hognose snake can vary depending on the morph and the breeder, but they typically range from $100 to $500.

How long do hognose snakes live?

Hognose snakes can live for 15-20 years with proper care.

What do hognose snakes eat?

Hognose snakes primarily eat rodents, such as mice.

Do hognose snakes bite?

Hognose snakes are rear-fanged and have a mild venom, but their bites are not considered dangerous to humans. They are generally docile and rarely bite.

How big do hognose snakes get?

Hognose snakes typically grow to be between 2 to 3 feet long.

Conclusion

Buying a hognose snake can be a rewarding experience. By doing your research, choosing a reputable seller, and providing proper care, you can enjoy the companionship of these fascinating reptiles for many years. Remember to consider the health, temperament, and living conditions of the snake before making a purchase, and always check your local laws regarding reptile ownership.