Eastern Hognose Snake

Looks how to spot one

keeled scales

This snake has a stout, heavy body with keeled scales and a distinctive upturned, pointed scale on the tip of its snout, which gives it a hog-like appearance. The head is blunt and triangular, and the body is slower-moving compared to many other snakes.41

Personality what they are like

Eastern hognose snakes are generally docile and easy to handle once settled, but they are famous for their theatrical bluff: they flatten their neck like a cobra, hiss loudly, and may even play dead if they feel threatened. They are not aggressive and rarely bite.3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

They are fossorial (burrowing) snakes and need deep, loose substrate to dig in. Provide at least 10-15 cm of sand or soil mix. They are not highly active but benefit from environmental enrichment such as logs, cork flats, and caves.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Maintain a temperature gradient of 24-29°C (cool side to basking spot) and humidity of 50-60% during the day, with higher humidity at night. Provide a water bowl large enough for soaking. Clean the enclosure regularly and handle gently, avoiding handling 48 hours after feeding or when the snake is in shed.3

Home where they are happiest

A minimum enclosure of 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (36"L x 18"W x 18"H) is recommended for an average adult; larger females need at least 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (48"L x 24"W x 24"H). Use well-draining sandy soil as substrate, and include hiding spots and climbing branches. The species is not venomous to humans in a medically significant way, but it is mildly venomous and can cause local swelling. It is not illegal to keep in most places, but check local regulations as it may be protected in some regions (e.g., Canada).31

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In the wild they eat almost exclusively toads. In captivity they can be fed a variety of prey including rodents (if weaned onto them), but many individuals prefer amphibians. Offer appropriately sized prey (about the width of the snake's head) every 4-5 days for juveniles and once a week for adults. Scenting with frog or lizard scent may help if the snake is reluctant to eat.3

Company who they like around

Eastern hognose snakes are solitary and should be housed alone. They do not require social interaction with other snakes. Handling should be limited to 1-2 times per week after the snake is established, and never within 48 hours of feeding or during shedding.3

The story where it all began

The eastern hognose snake has been known to science since 1801 when it was described by Pierre André Latreille. It has a long history in the pet trade due to its unique appearance and dramatic defensive behaviours. Captive breeding has become more common, though wild populations face threats from habitat loss. In Canada it is listed as a species of special concern.1

Recognised by the official bits

COSEWIC

Listed as a species of special concern in Canada due to habitat loss and population declines1