What is a Snake Habitat?

Just what is a snake habitat and how can you create a good one? Snakes can be tricky creatures to care for. They require particular maintenance that can vary depending on their breed. Everything from the size of their captive home to the temperature and additions must be strictly regulated.

A snake's cage should be able to handle the adult size of the snake. It should be long enough that if the snake, at its adult length, were to stretch out, the cage could hold two-thirds of its body. So, if you were to have a snake that had the potential to reach six feet, you would need a cage that was at least four feet long.

It's important that you maintain the temperature in your snake's habitat. During the day the temperature should be between 80 and 85 degrees. At night you can drop it down to 70 to 75 degrees. A heated rock or other area of the cage where your snake can go to warm up is a good idea as well. Check with your local pet store or veterinarian to determine what kind and how much light your snake requires.

Many snakes are good escape artists, and the last thing you want is a loose snake in your house. To prevent your snake from getting out of its cage, make sure that it is made of solid material, such as glass. Aquariums make good snake environments.

Mimic your snake's natural environment inside the cage. This can help reduce your snake's stress level, especially when its home is new. Use tree branches, water and rocks, depending on what your snake is used to. It's a good idea to prevent something for your snake to hide and sleep in, such as a box inside the cage or a hollowed out "log." Your snake may wish to lie in the water, so be sure that the container is large enough to accommodate him.

Keep your snake's cage clean. Cleaning it out once a week to once every other week is ideal. Make sure you clean everything to avoid your snake getting sick.