In the world of exotic pets, lizards and snakes are among the most popular choices. Enthusiasts can select from a wide variety of species, each further diversified through selective breeding into distinct genetic morphs. This niche hobby is gradually gaining mainstream acceptance.
Common pet lizards include bearded dragons and various geckos (such as leopard geckos, fat-tailed geckos, and others). For snakes, many species are popular, and some beginner-friendly varieties are even nicknamed “starter snakes” by hobbyists. New snake owners often ask questions like:
- What should I know before getting a snake?
- Do snakes recognize their owners?
- Can snakes feel emotions?
- What if I get bitten?
- Can snakes eat artificial feed?
These concerns aren’t limited to first-timers—even curious observers share similar questions. Let’s address them one by one.
Table of Contents
Before You Get a Snake
If you’re considering snake ownership, the first step is learning about snake species and their behaviors. Never impulsively bring a snake home without prior research or discussing it with family or roommates. While many pet snakes look adorable, they are living creatures—not impulse purchases to be discarded casually.
Snake Species
Snakes fall into three categories by venom: venomous, mildly venomous, and non-venomous. Common non-venomous pet snakes include:
- Corn snakes
- Milk snakes
- Rat snakes
- Kingsnakes
- Pythons
- Boas
Mildly venomous species (harmless to humans) include:
- Hognose snakes
- Red-backed keelbacks
- Tiger keelbacks
Venomous snakes (not recommended for beginners):
- Cobras
- Vipers
- Pit vipers
- Bamboo vipers
While experienced keepers may handle venomous species, beginners should stick to non-venomous snakes like corn snakes, milk snakes, or kingsnakes.
Snake Behavior
Most snakes rely on camouflage, hiding in environments that match their coloration. Provide a semi-enclosed hide in their enclosure for security.
As carnivores, wild snakes prey on rodents, fish, birds, amphibians, or other reptiles. Captive-bred pet snakes, however, thrive on frozen/thawed mice (sold online) or live prey, sized appropriately: pinkies (newborn mice), fuzzies, hoppers, or adults. Some species have specialized diets (e.g., Cyclophiops major eats earthworms; blind snakes consume ants), making them challenging for novices.
Do Snakes Bond With Owners?
No. Snakes lack complex brains and emotional capacity—they won’t bond like cats or dogs. However, captive-bred snakes are far calmer than wild counterparts. Over time, they grow accustomed to human scent as part of their environment. While they don’t recognize “ownership,” they may become familiar with your presence, allowing limited interaction.
Snake Bites: Risks and Response
Any animal with a mouth can bite—snakes included. Rest assured: non-venomous bites are harmless. Snake teeth are short and curved backward, so never yank if bitten. Instead:
- Gently press the snake’s neck while easing its jaws open.
- Submerge the bite area and snake in water—it will release to breathe.
- Use a thin tool (e.g., a toothpick) to pry open its mouth from behind the jaws.
Clean the wound with soap and water. Venomous bites require immediate medical care: wash the area, apply pressure, and bring the snake (or a photo) to the hospital for antivenom.
Final Thoughts
For enthusiasts, snakes are fascinating creatures—graceful yet quirky, with striking aesthetics. Those who don’t share this interest should respect it. No animal is inherently “superior” or “inferior”; loving snakes is simply another way to appreciate nature’s diversity.
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