Are you contemplating purchasing a snake for yourself? Not many individuals would consider keeping a snake as a pet.
Others, like you, see an endearing, pretty, legless animal that is just as meaningful as a dog or cat, while some see a cold-blooded killer. Even though many snakes are pretty cute, harmless, and tiny, some are deadly, enormous, and even frightening.
However, before you decide what snake is best for a pet, remember that there is more to a snake than its appearance. Yes, it matters if you like how your scaly companion looks, but there are also many other factors to consider.
By reading the rest of this guide, find out what snake is best for you.
8 Best Snake Pets for Beginners
As much as you may love snakes, it’s essential to remember that there are many factors to consider before purchasing your scaly reptile. Most first-time snake buyers will choose the one that most visually appeals to them.
While appearances are undoubtedly important, you should also consider other aspects to determine which is most likely to suit your needs.
1. Corn Snake
The corn snake is a top contender for the best snake to keep as a pet. Corn snakes are considered the gentlest and most docile of the group. They are renowned for being simple to handle and feed. They love to burrow and are nocturnal.
Corn snakes, native to North America, are typically red, orange, yellow, or brown. They have a maximum height of 6 feet and a maximum lifespan of 25 years.
2. California Kingsnake
Because of their ability to kill and devour other snakes like rattlesnakes, I regard California kingsnakes as kings. This California kingsnake is well-known in both the trade and the wild in places like Southern California.
They are also well-liked among novice snakes, even though, if handled infrequently, they can get a little nippy. These snakes are opportunistic feeders in the wild, eagerly pursuing and devouring other snakes, including some venomous snakes, lizards, small rodents, and birds.
3. Gopher Snake
Gopher snakes are the one to start with if you want to develop the hobby of keeping snakes. They come in a wide range of patterns and are relatively simple to find for sale, with prices starting at $50. You could find them at a lower price if you visited your neighborhood reptile store.
The average length of a gopher snake is between 4 and 5 feet, but it can grow up to 6 feet long. They have large bodies and can live in captivity for more than 15 years.
4. Ball Pythons
The name refers to how these timid snakes roll into a ball and try to hide when threatened. Be ready to invest a lot of time in developing trust with your pet snake because of its submissive, serene nature.
These nocturnal African snakes, native to the west and central regions, would do well in humid environments.
Because they are available in more than 500 different hues and patterns, ball pythons are very popular. Most grow to a maximum of 5 feet in length, but they can also thicken over time. Ball pythons have a 30-year lifespan.
5. Children’s Python
Children’s Pythons grow to be between 2.5 to 4 feet long, making them rare medium-sized snake that stays small. These pet pythons make excellent pets for novices and are calm enough to be with children under adult supervision.
This pet snake requires the most basic care and intake of any rodent. When treated gently and frequently, they have great temperaments. They have a 30-year lifespan. Your pet python will cost you anywhere from $70 to $350.
6. Rosy Boa
Rosy boas, also known as Charina trivirgata, are unfortunately less common in pet shops than corn snakes or ball pythons.
They do, however, make excellent pets. Rosy boas are incredibly alluring and typically easy to keep as pets. Once they start taking food regularly, the majority become pretty tame and don’t cause any issues when it’s time to eat.
7. Garter Snake
In North America, almost everyone who has spent time outside is familiar with garter snakes, and they often make good pets.
There are many species of garter snakes, but the majority are similar. They mainly vary in terms of eating habits and color patterns. For instance, common garter snakes typically eat fish, whereas others prefer to consume worms.
8. Ringneck Snakes
Small ringneck snakes have a matching ring around their necks and are typically brown to black with a red and yellow belly.
Keepers can typically provide them with an earthworm-based diet because they usually eat elongated ectotherms. Even though ringneck snakes have mild venom, only the largest ones can bite humans.
Final Word
Welcome to the fascinating world of owning a pet snake if you discover one perfect just for you! Remember that it’s crucial to ensure your pet is healthy before letting them move into your house.
Thanks for reading.
