Western Hognose Care Sheet

Western hognose are small, hardy, and beginner-friendly, but they have a few quirks worth understanding — especially around feeding and their theatrical bluffing.

Enclosure

• Size. A 20–40 gallon (or equivalent PVC enclosure) suits an adult. Hatchlings can be started smaller so they feel secure.
• Security. They dig and push, so a tight-fitting, locking lid is essential.
• Hides. Provide a hide on both the warm and cool ends.

Heating

• Establish a basking surface around 90°F and a cool end in the high 70s°F.
• Use a thermostat-controlled heat source and verify temps with a probe thermometer.
• No nighttime temperature crash below the low 70s°F.

Substrate

An aspen or a loose, diggable substrate lets them burrow — a behavior they genuinely need. Avoid substrates that hold too much moisture.

Feeding

• Appropriately sized rodents (prey no wider than the widest part of the snake).
• Hatchlings weekly; adults every 7–10 days, adjusting for body condition.
• Hognose can be food-fussy. Scenting and patience usually win; never leave live prey unattended.

Behavior

The hissing, hood-flaring, and mock strikes are bluff. Hognose rarely bite defensively; the display is theater. Handle calmly and they settle quickly.