WESTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE

Heterodon nasicus

Description

In general, their base color is cream to tan with several brown to olive green blotches running down the spine and they have 2 to 3 rows of lateral spots as well. There are 35+ dorsal spots in the males and 40+ in the females. There is a band from eye to eye across the rear of the frontal scales which extends obliquely from the back of the eye angling to the corners of the mouth. The dorsal and lateral scales of all Heterodon are heavily keeled. The hognose receives its name from the rostral-nose scale that is up-turned hence giving it a pig or hog-nosed appearance.

Hognose snakes are famous for their defense displays. If they are approached and feel threatened, they rear up with a cobra-like hood. Though they have little intention of biting, they striking out with their mouth open and releasing a loud hiss. If these antics do not succeed in scaring the aggressor, the snake will turn over, violently twist about as if in agony, and then finally roll over and play dead (thanatosis) often with mouth open and tongue protruding.

Hogs generally live from 15-18 years (longest longevity being 19 yrs 10 mo) and will obtain a nose to tail length (NTL) ranging from 18 to 20 inches and rarely exceed 24 inches in length. The largest "Hognose:western hognose"western hognose recorded was 89.5 cm (35.8 in).

Distribution

Husbandry

Bottom medium:

cypress mulch

aspen shavings

pine shavings

sterilized sand-box sand

AstroTurf

These mediums provide a more natural surface and will help to prevent muscular atrophy often associated with the use of smoother mediums such as newspaper. The sand, mulch or shavings will also provide a natural medium that will allow the snake to burrow as it would in its natural habitat. If using sand, this should be well sterilized by baking it in a 200-250° C oven for 1 - 1.5 hours. This will help ensure that there is no harmful bacteria, fungus or parasites present. Newspaper, though not the author's substrate of choice for hognose snakes, can be used. It provides a bottom medium that helps inhibits bacterial growth and is easily replaced when soiled. Cedar shavings must be avoided as the resin from this wood is toxic to reptiles and amphibians.

Temperature

A gradient temperature within the enclosure is recommended to allow thermal regulation. This can be accomplished by providing a basking area with a temperature of approximately 29-33°C at one end of the environment by placing an incandescent bulb over or heating pad under the tank at one end. If using an incandescent bulb, this must be protected from the cage occupant to prevent burns and it should be attached to a thermostat to prevent overheating.

Notes

The morphology and known fossorial habitats of the hognose snake may indicate that it burrows in the sandy soil for shelter. In their natural habitat, they are rarely found under rocks or wood. Regardless, it is recommended that they be given a hiding area to retreat to, especially if they are not provided with a bottom medium suitable for burrowing. If maintaining the snake in a natural type setting where burrowing is possible, a piece of slate resting against a rock can make a pleasing addition to the environment. A non-tippable water bowl should also be included in the environment. Since warmth encourages bacteria growth, the water should be placed at the opposite end of the heat source. This should be changed every second to third day or more frequently if soiled. Ensure that the hognose cannot burrow underneath any piece of furnishing and become trapped.

Young hognose snakes are prone to drying out and seem to require a higher humidity than the adults. It is recommended to maintain them in a relatively high humidity of about 60-70%. Some literature suggest keeping babies in moist conditions but this may encourage the development of "blister disease" (necrotic dermatitis). A solution may be to provide two hide-boxes with different substrates. This can consist of covered containers with a hole in the side or top one container with a dry bottom medium and a second one with dampened sphagnum or peat-moss. This would give the snake the opportunity to seek the conditions it requires. Adult snakes prefer dry conditions and do not seem to tolerate moisture well.

Diet

Heterodon in their natural habitat, will consume a variety of amphibians such as leopard frogs, tadpoles, tiger salamanders and toads. The will also eat reptiles such as lizards, lizard eggs, snakes, snake eggs and turtle eggs. Heterodon will also consume mice, shrews, birds and their eggs (including pheasant and quail eggs). In captivity they can be fed a diet consisting of rodents.

Common problems

Ectoparasite (external parasites) can be easily treated by the keeper. Ticks can be dabbed with Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol and then a few minutes later removed with tweezers. Mites can be eradicated by exposure to a small 1/2 inch square piece of VaponaTM strip for 48 hours and then the process repeated 14 days later. It is advisable to remove the water while exposed to the Vapona. Internal parasites can be diagnosed with a stool analysis done by your local vet. Once the parasite has ben identified, your veterinarian can recommend the proper medication at the appropriate reptile dosage. Blister disease Vesicular dermatitis can be life threatening. If discolouration or blisters appear on the abdominal area, consult your vet immediately. Respiratory infections usually caused by drafty environmental conditions, are identified by laboured breathing or bubbling at the nose and/or mouth should receive immediate veterinary attention.

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