The decision to adopt an animal as a pet can be an exciting and enjoyable experience for anyone of any age. All most popular pet snakes suggested by The Reptile Bay
If you’re an aspiring herpetologist who wants to join the 4.5 million families which have reptiles an experienced handler searching for a snake that is a beginner This list can assist you in finding the ideal snake.
Snakes are quite different from livestock and companion animals. Due to this, they have different requirements for needs for care and husbandry. Selecting a snake for beginners is a difficult task. It is essential to choose a snake that is best to your needs and handling capabilities.
This article we’ll discuss the top 20 snakes for pets which can be handled by novices based on their easy care, price and the temperament.
20. Smooth Green Snake
It, similar to the more rough versions originates from North America and has a very slim frame.
It is able to be kept in an enclosure of a smaller size (e.g. 10 gallon live vivarium) and even fed insects but it’s not able to handle well for extended durations of time. They’re ideal for someone who would like for a reptile to be kept more of an exhibit animal rather instead of a pet.
Smooth Green Smooth Green has similar care needs and temperament as its mate, its cousin, the Rough Green Snake (also featured in this list). What makes this pet stand less highly on this list is its accessibility.
They are more difficult to locate as captive-bred animals. There are only a handful breeders, and wild captured (as as being prohibited for keeping) is more troublesome due to numerous reasons.
If you’re a novice and you manage to get grasp of a quality Smooth Green, they could be a fantastic selection.
Although they can’t be handled regularly Their small size allows an ideal pet, easy feeding, and a wonderful learning experience. The length of time they can last is 15 years and the cost of their care will differ according to where they originate from.
19. Ringneck Snake
The Ringneck is another snake native that is native to North America and has a distinct orange or yellow necklace (as their name suggests).
They are extremely small and are usually around 1 foot long.
They are known to eat earthworms and require more attention (e.g. adequate lighting and heating) in comparison to the other snakes in this list. They usually are gentle and will tolerate handling for short durations of time. However, they can be irritable when they are treated for a long time without interruption.
While they do carry venom that can hurt their prey, this poison is not harmful for humans. Their teeth and mouths are tiny, and any attempt for a bite to your fingers cause harm to your body.
Since they aren’t as well-known like other pet snakes, they are relatively scarce. They are able to live up to 10 years, however they can only live for six years in captivity and can cost anywhere from $10 to $30 USD.
18. Rainbow Boa
It is known as the Rainbow Boa is native to South America and is not generally recommended to novices due to its shy and timid behavior however it is able to earn an appearance on this list because of its merits.
The first and most important thing is that Rainbow Boas are well-known and admired because of their amazing shades. If they are lit properly they are dazzling with a and iridescent shimmer on their faces.
They require special care and particular tank conditions extreme humidity and heat because of their habitat in the tropical rainforest. They might be nippy or shy in their early years However, the perfect Rainbow Boa is able to be tamed to an adult level with regular handling.
They might be higher maintenance however the rewards of a beautiful reptile can be an excellent one provided the appropriate duration of care and effort is given to their treatment.
The best choice for anyone who is prepared for an investment of a significant amount and wants to master the correct way to handle.
Rainbow Boas typically run between 5 and 9 feet in length and last for more twenty years of age. They’re also among the most expensive pets we have on our list, usually ranging from $200 to $600 USD. Certain albinos and morphs may cost as much as $2,000-$3000 USD.
17. Carpet Python
The Carpet Python is native to Australia and is available in a wide range of colors as well as a variety of species. The Carpet Python is slightly bigger than other snakes, ranging from 6-6.5 feet in average.
They follow a lot of the similar husbandry needs like the other snakes on this list, in terms of lighting, temperature and food. They’ll require extreme temperatures, constant lighting and food sources such as rodents.
Carpet for babies and young children. Pythons are typically fast however, when they’re often handled, they are likely to be more patient as they grow older.
This is the reason that some people who are new to pet ownership prefer to begin with a less tame selection, but that’s not to suggest that a great Carpet Python won’t be a suitable pet for the majority of.
The majority of people who are new to them love their variety of colors. They can last between 20 and 20 years old, and usually cost between $100 and $300 USD.
16. Cape House Snake
Brown House Brown House is indigenous to Africa and measures about 4 and 5 feet. They feed mostly on rodents and meet the same basic care and grooming needs of other snakes.
Although not a particularly sought-after selection, the Brown House is a fantastic snake to start with and is typically priced between $60-$150 USD.
They are generally calm and are easy to handle once they’ve been adjusted to their new surroundings. They’re not too large If they bite, it won’t be a danger to your pet.
However, they suffer from a shorter lifespan usually less than 8 years.
15. Dekay’s Brown Snake
This reptile has a shorter lifespan of up to 7 years, but are more inexpensive, ranging from $10-$30.
Though it isn’t considered by herpetologists as a perfect first snake to get, many experts agree that the correct Dekay’s Brown could be a wonderful beginning snake for anyone who is just starting out.
Their habitat isn’t required to be as huge like the tanks of other species due to their tiny dimensions (barely being a foot long).
The species is located across North America and does not require high temperatures which makes their management very simple. The Dekay’s Brown Snake is a naturally curious animal, and they generally do not suffer from stress caused through human activities or manipulation.
Due to the fact that they’re tiny and small, they are able to eat earthworms and insects, rather than smaller mammals.
Overall, the handling of this dog is a bit easier according to your style of management They are tolerant of occasional gentle handling. They can certainly be handled by beginners with the proper management.
14. African Egg-Eating Snake
An African Snake that eats eggs like its name implies is a scavenger hunter who eats bird eggs and absolutely nothing else..
It is a rare and extremely specific requirement for feeding. This is among the many disadvantages of possessing this snake.
This species isn’t terribly massive, measuring 2-2.5 feet in length and spread across the majority of Africa.
The feeding of this snake in captivity is among the most difficult aspects of their life. They must contain quail or finch eggs since chicken eggs are far too big. But, this could bode good for you if don’t want feeding rodents.
They are from dry environments which means they don’t require high humidity as do most species. Apart from that they possess the ability to defend themselves by imitating the colours of dangerous reptiles instead of attempting to bite.
It is inconceivable for them to bite or hurt a human.
After being treated regularly, they are gentle, calm and easy to handle by an inexperienced. They live for 15 years old, and usually cost between $60 and $160 USD.
13. Rat Snake
It is the Rat Snake, although not as well-known however, is closely related with the Corn Snake, sharing the same Genus Pantherophis.
Average size, measuring three feet in height and are common across all over the United States. They typically eat rodents and are usually found in woodlands or barns.
If they’re scared when they are scared, when they are scared “play dead” and lay in a slumber instead of hitting.
Similar to their Corn Snake cousins They’re also shy and gentle, particularly if they are handled frequently. They don’t also exhibit the same attraction to temperatures. Though they’ll still need high temperatures in their tanks however, ambient temperatures won’t cause harm to them.
This reptile that is docile is simple to take care of and is an excellent snake to start with at anyone of any age. They can live for up to 30 years, and typically cost between $30 and $300 (depending on the type of morph).
12. Children’s Python
It is Children’s Python, named by the Zoologist John George Children, is an average-sized python that is 2.5-4 feet in length that is found in the rocky regions of Australia.
The reptile is essential to its needs and feeds on mice or rats.
They’re not as bright as the other animals listed However, they make excellent pets since they are not requiring any additional needs for care and have good temperaments, particularly if they are handled often and with care.
Children’s Pythons are able to be handled by novice herpetologists. They can live for up to 30 years old and are priced between $75 and $350 USD (depending on the location they originate from).
11. Rough Green Snake
The reptile’s slim body is found in the southeastern US along with northeastern Mexico and is extremely long for their tiny bodies, with some reaching 2.5 feet in length.
They’re usually located in forests. Contrary to most pet snakes rodents aren’t big enough to swallow They prefer to consume spiders and insects. For general grooming as well as feeding the snake in question is more easy to handle than the others.
Greens in rough form can live for up to fifteen years, although the majority of captive animals don’t last this long.
Although this species is small and could be physically more easy to handle, they are better in homes in which they don’t have to be handled frequently and can get anxious and fearful.
They’re an excellent choice for people who wish to understand the fundamentals of taking care of a snake, and maintaining their snakes healthy and clean However, they’re not the best choice for people who wish to regularly handle their snake.
10. Common Boa Constrictor
One reason Boa Constrictors are not usually recommended for beginners is due to their massive size, which is the staggering 13-16 feet! They require a skilled handler with the strength to be able to hold them.
But, that’s not to suggest that this Constrictor isn’t a good snake to make a great snake to start with.
The Boa extends across the entire region of Central as well as South America. In the wild, they eat deer, fishand lizards and other creatures. However, in captivity, they could consume rabbits, rats, as well as chickens (depending on their dimensions).
They share the same general requirements for care like most snakes, with the exception that they require a larger enclosure in order to fit their larger.
Boa Constrictors tend to be gentle when they are frequently handled However, they can also be extremely strong and can wrap around you tightly if they sense that they are being threatened.
Due to their huge dimensions, these snakes are best suited to adult novices as opposed to children.
They’re tame and will accept handling if frequent, and are able to make an ideal pet. They can last until 30 years old and range from $60-$200 USD.
9. Kenyan Sand Boa
This species is famous for digging into sand. This is illustrated by their aerodynamic form as well as their smooth, uniform scales. Boas use Sand to choke their prey, which is a pink mouse.
This Boa loves heat and requires to have a warm tank.
One thing these reptiles require that other species do not, is a layer of sand at the floor of their tank to allow for burrowing. This implies that the tank could be more difficult to clean for novices as opposed to a tank that has simple substrates (e.g. newspaper).
This Kenyan Sand Boa is on the smaller size, extending just a bit more than 2 feet in length.
They’re fairly gentle snakes that prefer to be squirming away rather and not bite if they do not like being handled. They may be aggressive at times with the right sand snake can be a perfect snake for someone who is just beginning.
The typical cost is $75 to $200 (depending on the form) They can be able to live for as long as 20 years.
8. Western Hognose Snake
Western Hognose is indigenous to the western areas of the US in addition to the southern part of Canada as well as Mexico.
They are well-known for their noses that are turned up and are most active in the mornings and evening.
In the wild, they typically consume tiny creatures like lizards or toads. They are fond of digging holes in the earth to look for toads hidden in the sand. However, they will consume mice when they are in captivity, if toads aren’t available.
Western Hognoses flatten their heads and theirs when they are feeling threatened. They can strike however they are recognized for not biting (even in situations where they are most at risk). They prefer to be silent.
The sound they emit when threatened isn’t an aggressive act and they handle the situation well. They can be expensive for a starter snake that ranges from $100 to $700 USD.
7. Garter Snake
A relatively inexpensive pet ranging from $15 to $50.
Garters can be some of the more populated wildlife snakes in the United States, and you are also likely to see Garters as pets in numerous homes.
They can be fed small worms and small fish. Despite their unique diet, they do have heating and lighting needs. They are smaller than the average they usually measure 1.5-2 feet, but some reaching up to four feet.
The snakes have distinct stripes along their backs. They are prone to savor meadows, marshes and woodlands. They also appreciate having a source of water within their tank. They enjoy basking in the sun and they are among the few snakes that are beginners and require the use of a lamp for basking.
Although it is widely regarded as the snake you see within your yard (rather than being a pet) however, the Garter Snake actually is extremely popular animal in captivity as well.
In the wild, they’re generally harmless and are easy to tame. They make a wonderful pet for those who are new to the breed and can be handled due to their soft and gentle nature.
6. Gopher Snake
Very active pets which are tame to handle for beginners.
Also called the Bull as well as a Pine Snake Also known as a Bull or a Pine Snake, the Gopher is an reptile indigenous in the west United States.
They’re often confused with rattlesnakes, however people who are new to the field can recognize the difference due to their an oval pupils and noses and do not have fangs. The reptile could be diurnal or nocturnal however, either one is extremely active.
The snakes on this list are on the longer part of this list, with the potential to grow up by 4.5 foot long.
Like rattlesnakesthey shake their tails and hiss in case they feel threatened but they’re not poisonous. The bite of theirs may be painful, but they will only bite to defend themselves.
A captive-bred, tamed and captive-bred Gopher should be easy to handle for those who are new.
They can live for up to 20 years old, and they love to soak on the hot sun therefore they’ll require a sun-bathing lamp for their habitat. They are priced between $90-$190, depending on whether they’re Albino, or otherwise.
5. Milk Snake
Similar to like the California King (ranked at #2 according to our rankings) The Milk Snake is actually a distinct kind of King Snake.
The have been from the US in addition to Mexico and usually come with white, black and red body rings.
Commonly found in forests or in rocky areas These animals do not prefer sunbathing instead, they prefer to soak the heat of logs and rocks. Therefore, heating an in-floor heater could be the best option for their needs. They also have very basic requirements for care and can live for up to 20 years.
Small in size, the reptile could grow up to 2 feet in their initial years.
As with many other King specie, Milk Snakes are very gentle and never bite. They’re definitely easy to handle for an amateur herpetologist and generally cost between $50 and $200 USD.
4. Rosy Boa
Rosy Boas are a brown-rosy-pink color that can adapt to captivity extremely well. They are typically found on West coasts of United States and parts of Mexico.
Naturally curious, Rosy Boas hardly strike or bite, and are certainly easy to handle for novices because they love being handled.
They can live for up to 30 years in cages. They could cost between $25 and $350, depending on whether you buy it from a retailer that is public or an individual breeder.
They are known for their docile reptile, they’re easy to care for and have minimal husbandry needs, but aren’t as well-known as the top three snakes listed on this list!
3. Ball Python
Ball Pythons have their name due to”ball “ball” they like to cuddle up in, feeling secure.
Originating from central and west Africa They prefer to dwell in grasslands. They are most likely to burrow into rodent burrows. They are active in the evening and prefer to stay at night, but remain secluded during the day.
They’re typically brown with lighter patches but captive-bred Ball Pythons are available in a wide range of shades. Adults typically measure 3.5-5 feet long and can live up to 20-30 years.
The Ball Pythons gentle creatures that aren’t afraid to bite. They are more likely to curled up in the shape of a ball whenever they are afraid. They are likely to develop out of this behaviour when they are handled often.
The Pythons consume mice and lizards, but it’s their diet-specific nature that makes novice herpetologists hesitant. Pythons love having their food freshly either killed or frozen.
They are typically priced between $25 and $200 depending on the nature of the form. In general Ball Pythons make the most popular first snake with a few exceptions. Apart from occasional food sensitivity they are easy to cleaning routine and are easy to handle.
2. California King Snake
California King snake is the most popular subspecies of Snake. California King snake is the most well-known subspecies of King Snake.
They are also native also to United States, they are generally brown-black with stripes, yellow bands or speckles. They can grow to 2.5-5 feet in length (about the same length as the Corn Snake). Contrary to Corn Snakes, these reptiles are active during daylight hours instead of at the nighttime. However, they should maintain regular periods of darkness and daylight.
Ideal for children because they can be kept in a 20-gallon tank. They consume mice in captivity and can live for as long as 20 years.
The pet may be timid, however they are extremely docile when given frequent contact. Instead of slamming into the wall when threatened, they will prefer to recline to protect themselves to protect themselves. Reptiles that are well-trained in handling and being held in captivity should not be afraid when it is in captivity.
They typically cost between $70-$170 and meet the basic requirements for care but also the benefit that they are easy to manage due to their calm disposition.
1. Corn Snake
They have a moderate size and a gentle disposition
Corn Snake Corn Snake is the most popular snake for beginners..
The snakes are native to the United States, they can be seen in the terrestrial ecosystems. The snakes range from generally orange to red, with black-red blotches that are dark However, a range of colors are found in a variety of captive-bred snakes.
Baby Corns are between 10 and 12 inches in length and will grow to be 3-4 feet long. They are able to be caught wild (by professional fishermen) however captive-bred ones are healthier and have more temperamental characteristics.
A mature Corn Snake can be kept in a 20-gallon aquarium that is what the dimensions of a medium-sized fish tank. The tank must be able to span from 72 to 90 inches from one side to the next.
They don’t have any additional lighting needs, however they are not nocturnal, which means they can be able to sleep for a long time.
Corn Snakes (40 corn snakes) are known to consume tiny mice in captive. They have very little health issues and any problems usually occur due to poor handling. They can live to 20 years old and cost between $40 and $100.
Overall, they’ve got an easy-care regimen and a very gentle disposition which makes the handling and care of them easy even for novice snake owners!
Summary
There are a variety of pet snakes included in the list below of 20, that are gentle and easy to handle, making them perfect for beginners!
If you’re new to keeping reptiles in your home, you must select which reptile is most appropriate for your preferences (e.g. temperament, handling, appearance):
| Species | Simple To Use? | Husbandry | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dekay’s Brown | Yes | Easy | Cheap |
| Common Boa Constrictor | No | Advanced | Expensive |
| Ball Python | Yes | Easy | Expensive |
| California King | Yes | Easy | Expensive |
| Corn Snake | Yes | Easy | Cheap |
There’s a reason Corn Snakes and Ball Pythons are so popular: they are simple to take care of, love being handled and have easy needs for husbandry!
Whichever reptile you decide to choose You are dedicating 10- 20 years of your time to the animal you choose and their future is in your control.
Tell The Reptile Bay which you prefer and, if you have them, why you’re keeping the others.
