Arizona Mountain kingsnake hatchling

[Jmail324]

Hey everyone,

I just purchased an AZ Mtn. kingsnake hatchling. I was wondering if a 10 gallon long is too large, if so what should I use?
Its not being shipped till next week, so I have time to get a smaller enclosure if necessary.

Thanks

Jared

[tHeGiNo]

That is fine, yes. They can grow to 44 inches, so a bigger enclosure will eventually be needed. Are you informed on the care for the particular snake? I would recommend reading as many care sheets as possible.

[Jmail324]

Thanks a lot. And Yes, I've been reading up on them a lot, but I'm still always looking for more information. If you know any good links with care info that would be appreciated as well. I've had 2 corns, and a ball python for over 2 years now, and I realize that theres always something new to learn.

Thanks again,

Jared

[tHeGiNo]

That is very good, because hey there is always something we don't know! Even the best of the best are still learning! Keep up the good work and I am glad you understand the importance of research research research. I will look up some good sites for you.

[Jmail324]

Thanks a lot, much appreciated

[vanderkm]

I would recommend a rubbermaid tub instead of a 10 gallon aquarium for a hatchling - for security against escapes and for maintaining a more constant humidity in the environment. I do not have mountain kingsnakes, so am not speaking from experience with them, and someone may know that the retained humidity in a rubbermaid tub would be too high for them, but I have used the ones that are 12" by 6" by 4" high for baby corns and kings and really like that the snake cannot escape. I have heard of too many close calls and escapes of hatchlings from other set-ups. We use these with the lid on and a security strap, put ventillation holes around the perimeter, use paper towel bedding and provide a tubular hide (cut lenghts of plastic pipe) that extends along the length of the tub. A heat source at one end that will give you the proper gradient for your species and ours have done very well in this. They seem to like the security of a darker container, the sides are sort of see though, but not as exposed as an aquarium. Ours stay in these until they are eating hopper size mice, then move up to the next size or into an aquarium.

Good luck with your new snake - they are very pretty - hope you will post some photos when you have him,

mary v.

[Jmail324]

I just posted a picture of her in the colubrid photo gallery. The breeder sent me the picture.

[vanderkm]

Great photo - she is too cute for words! Their colors are so dramatic. Maybe the breeder can offer some more specific advice on housing for your new snake too,


thanks for posting the photo,

mary v.