Colubrids Care Sheet

 

 

Scientific Name: Various species in the family Colubridae
Common Names: Colubrids (e.g., Rat Snakes, King Snakes, Corn Snakes, Milk Snakes, Garter Snakes, etc.)
Origin: Worldwide (found on every continent except Antarctica)
Average Size: Typically 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters), depending on species
Lifespan: 10-20 years in captivity, depending on species

Overview

Colubrids are one of the largest and most diverse families of snakes, comprising over 1,800 species. They are found in a variety of habitats worldwide, from forests and grasslands to deserts. Colubrids are non-venomous constrictors and most are known for their calm temperament, making them popular pets for beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike. Some well-known species include the Corn Snake, Rat Snake, King Snake, and Garter Snake.

Housing Requirements

Enclosure Size

Minimum 20-gallon tank (2 feet long) for adults.

Colubrids generally thrive in a horizontally spacious enclosure that allows them to explore and stretch out. The size of the tank should be chosen based on the adult size of the snake.

Enclosure Setup

  • Substrate: Use a variety of substrates such as coco husk, aspen shavings or  cypress mulch. Avoid cedar or pine as they can be harmful to snakes.
  • Hides: Provide at least two hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the enclosure—to allow your snake to feel secure.
  • Climbing: Many colubrids enjoy climbing. Providing branches or rocks for climbing opportunities is beneficial for species like rat snakes, king snakes, and corn snakes.
  • Water: Always provide a shallow, clean water dish large enough for the snake to soak in.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature Gradient:
    • Hot side: 80-85°F (27-29°C)
    • Cool side: 70-75°F (21-24°C)
  • Basking Spot: Create a basking area with temperatures around 85-90°F (29-32°C).
  • Nighttime Temperature: Maintain temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C) during the night.
  • Humidity: The humidity level will vary depending on the species:
    • Dry Species (e.g., Garter Snakes, Bull Snakes): 30-50% humidity.
    • Tropical Species (e.g., Milk Snakes, Rat Snakes): 50-60% humidity.

Proper temperature gradients and humidity levels are essential for digestion, shedding, and overall health. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor these conditions.

Feeding

  • Diet: Most colubrids are carnivorous and eat a diet of rodents, birds, amphibians, or other small animals. The exact diet depends on the species and age of the snake.
    • Common Prey: Mice, rats, chicks, and small reptiles or amphibians.

Occasional Prey: Some species may eat eggs or insects, depending on their natural diet.

  • Feeding Frequency:

*Young Snakes: Feed every 5-7 days.

*Adult Snakes: Feed every 7-14 days, depending on the species and the size of the prey.

  • Prey Size: Prey should be roughly the same width as the snake’s body. Offering prey that is too large can cause digestive issues, while too small may not provide enough nutrition.
  • Feeding Method: Live or thawed, appropriately sized prey items may be offered. Use tongs to avoid associating hands with food.

Shedding

Colubrids shed their skin as they grow, and the process can take several days.

  • Signs of Shedding: A cloudy or bluish tint in the eyes is the first sign that a snake is preparing to shed. The snake may also become more secretive and inactive.
  • Humidity: Adequate humidity (50-70%) is essential during shedding to help prevent stuck skin.
  • Shedding Box: Provide a humid hide with damp sphagnum moss or paper towels for the snake to rub against during shedding.

If any part of the shed skin is left behind (e.g., around the eyes or tail), provide higher humidity or consult a reptile vet if necessary.

Handling

  • Temperament: Most colubrids are calm, curious, and tolerant of handling, though some species may be more active or shy than others. Species like corn snakes, king snakes, and rat snakes are especially known for their docile nature.
  • Handling Frequency: Handle your snake regularly, but avoid over-handling to reduce stress. Start with short sessions and increase the time gradually as the snake becomes accustomed to human interaction.
  • Safety: Always support the full body of the snake when handling it. Avoid holding the snake by the head or neck, as this can cause injury or stress.

Health & Veterinary Care

  • Common Health Issues:
    • Respiratory infections (often due to poor humidity or temperature)
    • Mites and ticks
    • Digestive issues (often caused by improper feeding or stress)
    • Retained shed or skin issues
  • Routine Checkups: Have your colubrid checked by a reptile-savvy veterinarian annually for overall health, including a fecal exam for parasites.
  • Signs of Illness: Symptoms of illness in colubrids can include lack of appetite, lethargy, abnormal feces, labored breathing, or visible wounds.
  • Signs of Stress: Stress in colubrids can manifest as excessive hiding, refusal to eat, or defensive behaviors. This can be caused by incorrect environmental conditions, handling, or changes in the habitat.

Breeding Information

  • Sexing: Males of many species have longer, thinner tails compared to females. In some species, males may also have smaller heads or more pronounced spurs near their tails.
  • Breeding Season: Breeding usually occurs during the cooler months (fall and winter), with some species requiring a cooling period or a change in temperature to trigger reproduction.
  • Egg-Laying: Most colubrids lay eggs (oviparous), though some, like the boa constrictor, give birth to live young. Eggs should be incubated at 80-85°F (27-29°C) with humidity around 80-90%. Hatchlings will emerge in 60-90 days, depending on the species.

Conclusion

Colubrids are a diverse and fascinating group of snakes, offering something for nearly every type of reptile enthusiast. With proper care, they can make wonderful pets, living long, healthy lives in captivity. Whether you're looking for a small, manageable species like a corn snake or a larger, more active species like a king snake, there is a colubrid snake for every keeper.

Note: Always thoroughly research the specific needs of the colubrid species you are interested in keeping, as requirements can vary significantly. Proper care, including a suitable enclosure, feeding schedule, and appropriate environmental conditions, will ensure your colubrid thrives in your care.