Can You Keep a Sharp-Tailed Snake as a Pet?

Sharp-tailed snakes (Contia tenuis) are small, non-venomous snakes found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. They are typically brown or gray in color with a distinctive sharp tail that they use for hunting and defense.

Habitat and Behavior

Sharp-tailed snakes inhabit a variety of habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and woodlands. They are active during the day and spend most of their time hunting for small prey, such as lizards, insects, and rodents. Sharp-tailed snakes are not aggressive towards humans and will usually only bite if they are threatened.

Lifespan and Size

Sharp-tailed snakes typically live for 5-10 years in captivity. They can grow to be 2-3 feet long, with females being slightly larger than males. Sharp-tailed snakes are relatively easy to care for and make good pets for experienced snake keepers.

Diet and Nutrition

Sharp-tailed snakes are carnivores and should be fed a diet of live or frozen prey. Live prey, such as crickets, mealworms, and pinkie mice, are typically more nutritious than frozen prey, but they can also be more expensive and difficult to obtain. Frozen prey should be thawed before it is fed to the snake.

Housing and Care

Sharp-tailed snakes should be housed in a terrarium that is at least 20 gallons in size. The terrarium should have a secure lid and a substrate that is easy to clean, such as aspen shavings or cypress mulch. The terrarium should also have a heat lamp and a water bowl. The temperature in the terrarium should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Handling and Temperament

Sharp-tailed snakes are generally docile and easy to handle. However, they can be shy and may try to hide when they are first introduced to a new environment. It is important to handle your sharp-tailed snake regularly to get it used to being handled. When handling your snake, always support its body and avoid making sudden movements.

Conclusion

Sharp-tailed snakes are interesting and relatively easy-to-care-for pets. They are non-venomous and typically have a docile temperament. If you are considering getting a sharp-tailed snake as a pet, be sure to do your research and make sure that you are prepared to provide it with the proper care.