Milk Snake Care
Milk Snake
(Eryx colubrinus)
Milk snakes are a colorful, non-venomous colubrid found across North, Central, and parts of South America. Known for their bold red, black, and white or yellow banding, they mimic the appearance of venomous coral snakes—making them a classic example of Batesian mimicry. With over two dozen recognized subspecies, including the popular Honduran, Pueblan, and Nelson’s milk snakes, these snakes are hardy and make excellent pets.
Lifespan:
Typically 15-20 years in captivity
Sexing:
Males are generally smaller and thinner, while females are larger and heavier-bodied. Sexing is most accurately done by probing or experienced handling.
Enclosure:
Minimum for adults: depends on the subspecies; i.e Hunduran Milk snakes require 4x2x2 enclosures while other subspecies would require a minimum 36”x18”x18” enclosure due to their smaller size.
Escape-proof lid is essential—milk snakes are excellent at finding gaps
Substrate:
Aspen shavings, Coconut husk, cypress mulch.
Spot clean regularly and fully replace substrate monthly.
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Spot: 88-90°F.
Ambient Temperature: 75-82°F
Cool Side: 72=75°F.
UVB Lighting: UVB is not required but can be used for natural day/night cycle.
Humidity:
Maintain 40-60% humidity. Increase slightly during shedding with light misting or a humid hide.
Always monitor humidity levels with a digital hygrometer.
Food:
Feed frozen thawed rodents of the appropriate size (About the same width as the widest part of the snake)
Juveniles: Feed every 5-7 days
Adults: Feed every 10-14 days
Water:
Provide fresh water daily in a shallow dish. Use a heavy dish to avoid tipping, and replace water daily or when dirty.
Supplementation:
No additional vitamins and minerals are needed when feeding whole prey items.
Milk snakes are hardy, visually stunning, and usually easy to handle with regular interaction. Their manageable size and vibrant patterns make them an ideal choice for new and experienced snake keepers alike.