Hognose Ocidental

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults can reach up to 90cm

Origin: USA

Lifespan: Up to 20 years

Natural Habitat: The Hognose Ocidental is native to the prairies and dry rocky lands of western North America, anywhere with sandy, well-drained soil where it can burrow.

The Hognose Ocidental is a very distinctive snake species thanks to the shape of its head. It is an easy-to-keep diurnal burrowing species, suitable both for experienced keepers and for those new to the hobby.

Although this is a relatively easy species to keep, you should pay attention to a few aspects and ensure certain conditions, which you will find in the following paragraphs.

Terrarium

Size: Minimum 90x45x45cm for 1 adult. Young snakes can be kept in considerably smaller terrariums.

Material: Glass or Wood

 - Heating and Lighting

You should set up a terrarium with a thermal gradient, with a minimum temperature of 22ºC on the cool side and around 32ºC on the warm side. At night the temperature should not drop below 20ºC. To maintain these temperatures, use a Heat Mat under the terrarium; a Basking Spot lamp can also be used on the warm side during the day.

Although not essential, daytime exposure to a UVI between 0 and 3 (Ferguson Zone 1-2) is recommended. To achieve these UV levels you can use ShadeDweller UV lamps.

- Humidity

Even though it is a species from semi-arid habitats, the Hognose Ocidental needs a permanent source of clean water in the terrarium. Relative air humidity should be kept between 30 and 50%.

- Decor

You can use an Aspen substrate or Arcadia Earth Mix Arid. You can create a three-dimensional habitat using branches and rocks, making sure they are firmly secured. Especially with young animals, it is advisable to provide plenty of hiding places to avoid unnecessary stress. You can also use live plants (safe species only) and/or artificial ones.

Diet and Supplementation

Feeding habits: Carnivorous

 Juvenile Diet: You can feed prey of up to 15% of the animal's body mass every 5 days.

 Adult Diet (from 2 years old): You can feed prey of up to 10% of the animal's body mass every 5 days.

- Foods

Dead Mice and/or Rats.

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