Looking for an easy, enjoyable reptile companion? A garter snake pet might just be perfect! Perfect for beginners, these easygoing snakes don’t require too much space in most households. A garter snake pet can thrive in a variety of house types under proper care.
Garter snakes are good for experienced snake handlers and beginners. They are small in size and quiet, so they’re easy to handle. Their numerous colors and patterns also make them ideal for keeping as a pet.
But first, you need to know how to take care of a garter snake. While they still need a good environment, proper food, and regular handling, they are easier to maintain than some other reptiles. If you know what to do, taking care of your garter snake pet can be very rewarding.
Key Takeaways
- Low-maintenance reptile pets, garter snakes are beginner-friendly.
- They have a docile temperament and are easy to handle
- Proper garter snake care is essential for their health and well-being
- Garter snakes come in a variety of colors and patterns
- They can adapt well to captivity with the right habitat and diet
Introduction to Garter Snakes
Garter Snakes Are Unique and Varied Reptiles Found Throughout North and Central America. They offer a variety of colors and designs for your reptile lover. Whether you like garter snake pets or enjoy animal watching, these snakes can be found in fields and big cities alike.
Usually measuring 18 to 26 inches, a garter snake can reach up to four feet. Depending on the species, they show long stripes running down their backs in many hues. Proper garter snake care allows them to survive for ten years or more, so if you adopt one, you should be ready for a long-term commitment.
Garter snakes are diurnal, water-loving animals. In nature, they will hunt for insects, amphibians, and fish near water. On land, they feed on small mice, slugs and earthworms. If they sense danger, they can spray a smelly musk as a defense mechanism that repels predators.
Garter snakes are not venomous, but their mouths carry a mild toxin. While it is harmless to humans, this toxin enables the spiders to catch their prey. These guys are so gentle, they would make a great garter snake pet for anyone. They’re popular with reptile lovers for their even temperament and easy care.
If you are considering a garter snake pet, you should ensure that you can provide an environment that simulates their natural setting. See our complete care sheet for more information and advice on ‘garter snake care’ and how to set up the perfect environment your your new pet.
If you are considering a garter snake pet, you should ensure that you can provide an environment that simulates their natural setting. See our complete care sheet for more information and advice on garter snake care and how to set up the perfect environment your your new pet.
Why Choose a Garter Snake as a Pet
You should get a garter snake if you like exotic pets that are easy to care for and maintain. A unique experience for either a first-time reptile owner or an experienced reptile owner. These reptiles are not only friendly but also rather simple to care for. Their modest requirements and placid demeanor make them an excellent choice whether you have been in the hobby for years or have thought about getting a garter snake pet. Ideal for someone who does not know much about reptile care, a garter snake pet is the perfect combination of both simplicity and excitement.
Minimal Maintenance Needs
One of the reasons why garter snakes are kept in captivity is that they are very easy to maintain. Compared to other snakes, they don’t need as much space, making the grade for tighter living quarters. Their diet — comprised largely of earthworms, small fish, and sometimes rodents — is simple and relatively low-cost. This ease of care makes them ideal for someone who wants a pet reptile without the higher demands of other, more difficult exotic pets.
Friendly and Gentle Temperament
Garter snakes are known for their docile and amiable nature. Unlike most reptiles, they are generally not aggressive and can become relatively calm pets with regular handling. This is particularly useful when teaching children about reptiles and the care of pets. Therefore, these reptiles are perfect for families. They are also less likely to stress out their owners, making them a great choice for those new to snake care.
Affordability Compared to Other Reptiles
Cost-wise, garter snakes are a much better deal than other exotic pets. Tiny cages and modest dietary requirements mean they are cheaper to hold. Also, their initial price is more affordable than many other well-known reptiles, making them a great choice for people on a tight budget who wish to enjoy owning an exotic pet.
| Pet Reptile | Initial Setup Cost | Monthly Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Garter Snake | $100 – $200 | $20 – $40 |
| Bearded Dragon | $200 – $400 | $40 – $80 |
| Ball Python | $150 – $300 | $30 – $60 |
Garter snakes are inexpensive and offer a gratifying and interesting experience. Among reptile lovers and those searching for a special and reasonable garter snake pet, their pleasant attitude, low-maintenance care, and affordable prices make them a popular choice.
Understanding Garter Snake Species
It is important to know that several types of garter snakes are available. Not all garter snakes make good pets; certain species are great for snake lovers. Knowing these popular species will help you decide which one is right for you.
Common Garter Snake Species for Pets
The Eastern garter snake, Red-sided garter snake and California Red-sided garter snake are all good pets. They are beautiful, sturdy and easy to clean. These are perfect for both the experienced and new reptile owners.
The Eastern garter snake ranges across North America, and many homes are a tight fit. Natural Behavior: Red-sided garter snakes are known for their bright red stripes and easy going dispositions. They are found in central Canada and the United States. California Red-sided garter snakes look similar but are only found in California.
Differences in Size, Color, and Patterns
Garter snakes share a lot in common, but each type looks different. If you know the distinctions, you may choose one that fits your style and tastes.
| Species | Average Adult Size | Coloration and Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Garter Snake | 18-26 inches (45-66 cm) | Black, brown, or olive background with three longitudinal stripes in yellow, green, or blue |
| Red-sided Garter Snake | 24-36 inches (61-91 cm) | Black or dark brown background with three longitudinal stripes; red stripes bordered by black spots |
| California Red-sided Garter Snake | 24-36 inches (61-91 cm) | Similar to Red-sided garter snake but with more vivid red stripes and black spotting |
These pet garter snakes need the same care, even though they look different. Give them a good home, the right food, and handle them often. This way, your pet garter snake will be happy, no matter the species you choose.
Preparing a Suitable Habitat for Your Garter Snake Pet
Creating a good home for your garter snake is key to their happiness and health. A well-made enclosure should feel like their natural home. We’ll show you how to make the perfect space for your garter snake.
Choosing the Right Enclosure Size
You will want the correct cage size in order to make a good, tight little house for your garter snake pet. One that is at least as long as your snake and less than half as wide is perfect. How big of a terrarium does an adult garter snake need? A 20-30 gallon tank will be sufficient for an adult garter. If you have multiple snakes, you will need to add the necessary space for each additional snake. Then you should get a bigger cage.
Substrate Options for Garter Snakes
The garter snake bedding you use for your pet can make them healthy and happy. Cypress, coconut husk or aspen shavings all work well. They hold water easily, clean easy, and are a nice place for your snake to burrow under. Avoid cedar or pine shavings as they can irritate a snake’s respiratory system. You can also check out some different substrates online for garter snakes to figure out which one works best for your pet.
Providing Proper Heating and Lighting
Your garter snake pet requires a heat source for warmth, just like all reptiles. A warm zone is formed by the heating pad or basking lamp on one side of the pen. The warm side should be maintained at around 85 to 90 degrees, while the cool side will range from 75 to 80 degrees. Using a thermometer to check the temperature is very important.
Your garter snake as a pet also requires proper lighting. Give your plants 12 to 14 hours of sunshine daily using a UVB bulb or a full-spectrum fluorescent bulb. This light helps your snake manufacture vitamin D3, which is vital to their bones and overall health.
Adding Hides and Decorations
Decorating your pet garter snake’s habitat may make it look nicer, but more importantly, it provides them with valuable enrichment! Hides provide your snake with a secure, comfortable place to retreat to when it needs to be alone, or is just feeling a bit stressed. Consider using reptile hides, cork bark, driftwood or PVC pipe.
You may also put small ornaments such as imitation plants, stones, and branched into it. These offer your snake more places to travel. Just be sure to keep everything in a safe location so no one gets hurt.
You can ensure your garter snake pet grows strong and happy by selecting the suitable size, bedding, heating, lighting, and decorations.
Garter Snake Diet and Feeding
Wild garter snakes eat a variety of things, such as small fish, earthworms, slugs and amphibians such as frogs and salamanders. They’ll also hunt small mammals, birds and bugs if they can catch those. If you are raising a garter snake, you can feed it a diverse variety of foods to mimic what it would eat in the wild.
For pet garter snakes, it’s key to feed them a balanced diet that matches their natural diet. Here’s a list of good food options for your pet garter snake:
| Food Item | Frequency | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| Earthworms | Weekly | 2-3 worms per feeding |
| Feeder fish (e.g., guppies, minnows) | Weekly | 1-2 fish per feeding |
| Pinkie mice | Biweekly | 1 pinkie per feeding |
| Slugs | Occasionally | 1-2 slugs per feeding |
How much you feed your garter snake pet will depend on how big and old it is. Young snakes need to be fed more frequently than adult snakes. You will want to feed the snake something about the same size as the thickest part of its body.
Don’t overfeed to keep from getting fat. Feed your garter snake only as much food as it needs to maintain its health and ability to use its muscles. You can also provide your snake vitamins and minerals by adding supplements to the food before you feed it to your snake.
Your garter snake pet will thrive in its new surroundings if you feed it appropriately and monitor its feeding patterns.
Water and Humidity Requirements
You must provide your garter snake with clean water and the correct humidity. They need fresh water to stay healthy and hydrated. Maintaining the right moisture level helps their skin remain healthy and helps them shed.
Providing a Water Dish
Provide your garter snake with a shallow, fairly rigid dish of clean water to drink. Your snake should be capable of soaking in the dish if it wishes. Choose a bowl that is easy to clean, such as ceramic or stainless steel.
Put the water dish within easy reach of your snake, but not directly over the spot where they like to bask. This keeps the water from getting too hot. Inspect the water each day, and replace it as needed. To prevent harmful bacteria from developing, you should clean and disinfect the dish frequently.
Maintaining Proper Humidity Levels
Garter snakes thrive where humidity ranges between 30 and 50%. To maintain just the right level of moisture in the air, consider these:
- Mist the enclosure: Spray the substrate and decorations with water once or twice a day, depending on your home’s humidity.
- Provide a humidity hide: Give your garter snake a damp moss box or a hide with moist sphagnum moss for extra humidity.
- Use a moisture-retaining substrate: Pick a substrate like coconut husk or cypress mulch to help keep humidity up.
To maintain the humidity properly, modify your misting and add moisture when needed. On top of that, you will need good air flow to prevent the moisture from getting too high.
| Humidity Level | Effect on Garter Snakes |
|---|---|
| Below 30% | Can lead to dehydration and difficulty shedding |
| 30% – 50% | Ideal range for healthy garter snakes |
| Above 50% | Can cause respiratory issues and skin problems |
To help make sure your garter stays healthy, feed it clean water and make sure it has enough humidity. Just watch things, and adjust when you have to. Here’s how to make a lovely home for your pet garter snake.
Handling and Socializing Your Garter Snake Pet
Garter snakes are wonderful pets, but they should be handled and socialized correctly. A good plan ensures you both have a pleasant time. You will get to know your garter snake pet well if you remain patient and devoted. They won’t be strangers to you for long.
Best Practices for Safe Handling
Use both hands to handle the snake’s entire body. Place them on your hands and arms and carry them up from the bottom. Try to keep your actions and sounds calm when you are with pets. Just remember to be patient and gentle with garter snakes.
Pay attention to how your snake acts when you’re handling them. If they seem stressed, like thrashing or musk, put them back in their home and try again later. Short, regular handling times work better than long, rare ones.
Taming and Socializing Your Snake
It’s important to be patient while your garter snake gets to know you. Start by reacclimating your pet to stuff for only short durations, such as a few minutes, several times a week. The next step is letting them settle in your hands for a longer time.
Give your snake a treat while you are touching them so they feel more comfortable around you. If the garter snake pet is small, select a tiny mouse or earthworm and for larger, use a bigger mouse. Give them rewards for being calm and show them patience while they learn to trust you.
“Taming garter snakes is enjoyable, and it will improve your bond with your pet. You can help your garter snake feel secure and comfortable in your care with patience and understanding.”
Just remember that socializing garter snakes is a long term thing. Even if they are used to you, keep handling them regularly. It keeps them friendly and stress-free.
In conclusion, caring for a garter snake pet requires you to be patient and gentle and do the same tasks each time. If you take care of them and train them patiently, you will create a connection. As a result, you and your pet have a healthier and happier life.
Common Health Issues and Prevention
Garter snakes, like pets in general, can fall ill. If you are aware of the dangers and how to prevent them, your snake will be healthy. Common problems include respiratory infections, parasites and mouth rot.
Respiratory illnesses are common in pet garter snakes. Panting, breathing with the mouth open and having a runny nose are all symptoms. Illnesses can occur when the living environment is too cold, too hot or too dry. Avoid this by keeping their house clean with the proper temperature and humidity. Make sure the temperature doesn’t change too quickly and that drafts don’t get into the house.
Parasites can be harmful to your garter snake. Mites and ticks among external parasites may cause both skin problems and anaemia. Problems with weight and digestion may be caused by internal parasites like roundworms and tapeworms. You can prevent parasites from infesting your pet by going regularly to the vet and getting deworming medicine.
Mouth rot or stomatitis happens when bacteria build up in the mouth. The wound appears swollen, red and has either pus or dead material. This can result from poor living situations, pressure or suffering from an injury. You may prevent it by bathing regularly, eating healthy foods and managing your stress.
To ensure garter snakes are healthy, you need to make sure they do not get sick. Having a clean home, the proper temperatures and humidity and balanced meals can make many health problems less likely.
Visiting the vet regularly helps you find any health issues with your pet early. Your vet can examine your snake, search for any parasites and recommend ways to care for it.
If you watch for signs of illness in your garter snake pet and take care of them immediately, your pet will enjoy a long and good life. Please bring your snake to a reptile vet as soon as you notice it looks tired and stops eating or shedding differently.
Cleaning and Maintaining the Enclosure
Helping their living area to stay clean is important for the health of your garter snake pet. Bacteria and odor are kept under control if you clean your house regularly. This time of interaction will calm and relax your pet snake. We’ll share tips here on how to keep your pet’s decorations, hides and home cage clean.
Spot Cleaning Techniques
Taking the trash, old skin and any old food you find out every day is essential. Keeping your garter snake’s home clean is pretty easy.
- Use tongs or tweezers to pull poop, urates or shedding from your pet’s floor.
- Remove food that has not been eaten so bacteria doesn’t develop on it.
- Rub dirty locations with a wet piece of cloth or paper towel.
- When your old substrate is no longer clean, put in some fresh, clean material.
Full Enclosure Cleanings
You should clean the home for your garter snake every four to six weeks, though if it gets messy, do it more often. Let’s look at how to perform a deep clean.
- Always place your garter snake in a secure spot when cleaning their home area.
- Eliminate every accessory, hide and item inside the enclosure.
- After you replace the substrate, wash the whole enclosure using a disinfectant for reptiles.
- Wet the container and make sure it dries with the air for a while.
- Replacement bedding works better than the ones you’ve had for a while.
- Don’t forget to clean and disinfect all your pet items when you are done using them.
- Before returning your garter snake to the setup, checking that the enclosure is dry is very important.
Disinfecting Decorations and Hides
Clean and sanities your pet’s habitats and accessories every moment you can. You’ll discover how this is done in the next section.
- Remove the decorations and hide spots from your pet’s cage.
- Use a disinfectant created for reptiles to wash your reptile’s tank.
- Wash away the disinfectant by washing them in water.
- Don’t return the ornaments or hides until they are dry.
Helping your garter snake proceed happily and healthily is easy if you keep it clean. Cleaning often helps you notice any changes in your snake’s health at an early stage.
Garter Snake Pet Behavior and Body Language
As the owner of a garter snake pet, it’s crucial to be aware of how your pet behaves, and what it can mean. Knowing these will enable you to look after them better. You can discover a great deal about their health and happiness by monitoring their actions as well.
For the most part, garter snakes are curious and they like to explore. They’ll check out their new digs, examine new objects, warm themselves near the fire. This is a sign they are healthy and happy.
Garter snakes also shed their skin as they grow. They have to shed their skin to allow for their new size. When this happens, they might hide more and be less active. Make sure they have a humid spot to shed easily.
Understanding garter snake body language helps you know how they feel. If they hiss, strike, or smell bad, they’re scared or stressed. These signs mean they need some space and time to relax.
A calm garter snake moves smoothly, flicks its tongue to smell things, and might even come close when you handle it.
Here are some tips to help your garter snake behave naturally and be happy:
- Give them a big space with lots of places to hide and things to climb on
- Use different kinds of bedding, like aspen or coconut husk, for digging and hunting
- Make sure there’s a warm spot for them to bask
- Add new things like rocks or logs to keep them interested
Learning about garter snake behavior and body language helps you connect with your pet. It also makes sure they’re doing well physically and mentally. Always be calm and respectful around your snake. Don’t push them if they seem stressed. With care and a great home, you and your garter snake can have a great relationship.
Breeding Garter Snakes in Captivity
If you’re into breeding garter snakes, knowing the process and what you need is key. Garter snakes are great for reptile lovers who know their stuff. But, you must give the right care to both adults and babies.
Determining Sex and Maturity
First, figure out if your snakes are male or female. Males have longer, thinner tails and a swollen cloaca. Females are bigger and have shorter tails. They usually get ready to breed at 2-3 years old, based on the species and how fast they grow.
Breeding Setups and Conditions
To get snakes to breed, you need a setup that feels like their natural home. This means:
- Using a big enclosure (at least 40 gallons) for lots of space to move and find each other
- Adding many hiding spots and places to bask for both males and females
- Keeping a warm spot of 85-90°F (29-32°C) and a cooler area of 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- Keeping humidity at 40-60%, depending on the snake type
- Starting a brumation period by lowering temperatures and light for 2-3 months before breeding starts
Caring for Garter Snake Eggs and Hatchlings
After breeding, the female garter snake lays her eggs in 2-3 months. Garter snake eggs go into a damp spot in the enclosure. Here’s how to care for the eggs and garter snake hatchlings:
- Move the eggs to a special container with a damp substrate like vermiculite or sphagnum moss
- Spray the substrate to ensure that the humidity stays between 90-100%, and the temperature ranges between 78-84°F (25-29°C).
- Eggs hatch in 6- 8 weeks, depending on species and incubation circumstances.
- Place the hatchlings in small cages with hiding spots, water and food such as pinky mice or small earthworms.
- Monitor the health and development of the hatchlings, and when they grow larger, give them separate housing so they are not fighting each other, and they get enough food and care.
With good care you can even breed garter snakes and watch the youngsters grow. But you should always know where your babies are going before you start breeding.
Helpful Accessories and Products for Garter Snake Care
It’s important to have the proper things in place when creating a good home for your pet garter snake. They constantly monitor your pet’s temperature, humidity and health. Here are the things you need to make taking care of your reptile much easier.
First one, you’ll want a good thermometer and hygrometer. They allow you to check the temperature and humidity in the tank. Use digital ones to look simple and give you the correct measurements. Among the most prominent brands are Zoo Med, Exo Terra and Fluker’s.
After that, think about places where your pet can hide and the décor you’d like. Garter snakes want a place to hide and feel secure. You can use caves, logs or fake plants in your tank. These provide them with privacy and also make the tank look more natural. ReptiShelter and Zilla make great reptile hides and decorations.
“I’ve been using Zoo Med’s Repti Shelter for my garter snakes, and they absolutely love it! It provides them with a cozy hiding spot and helps them feel secure in their enclosure.” – Sarah, garter snake enthusiast
Many kinds of substrates are available to you. Using cypress mulch, coconut husk, or aspen shavings will give your aquarium great results. They provide excellent safety, are low-cost, and help control the humidity perfectly. The best options are Zoo Med’s Aspen Snake Bedding and Eco Earth’s Coconut Fiber Substrate.
You will need a good heat source and UVB light for heating and lighting. Under-tank heaters, such as Zoo Med’s Repti Therm, provide constant heat. For lighting, both the Exo Terra Natural Light and the Zoo Med Reptisun UVB bulbs are awesome. They allow your snake to continue to be healthy and natural.
| Product Category | Recommended Brands | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Thermometer/Hygrometer | Zoo Med, Exo Terra, Fluker’s | Accurate temperature and humidity monitoring |
| Hides and Decorations | ReptiShelter, Zilla | Provides security and enrichment |
| Substrate | Zoo Med, Eco Earth | Safe, affordable, and maintains humidity |
| Heating | Zoo Med Repti Therm | Consistent and adjustable heat source |
| UVB Lighting | Exo Terra Natural Light, Zoo Med Reptisun | Promotes natural behaviors and health |
Don’t forget a strong, escape-proof enclosure. Glass terrariums with secure lids from Exo Terra and Zoo Med are good choices. Pick a size that lets your snake move and explore.
Using these accessories and products makes a great home for your garter snake. Always choose quality and safety first. If you’re unsure, ask experts or vets for advice.
Garter Snake Care Mistakes to Avoid
As a new garter snake owner, knowing common care mistakes is key. These mistakes can harm your pet’s health. By avoiding them, your garter snake can live a happy life in captivity.
Overfeeding and Obesity
Overfeeding is a big mistake that can make your snake obese. Snakes eat a lot but can get fat if fed too much. To keep your snake slim:
- Feed your garter snake meals that fit its size and age
- Give meals every 5-7 days for adult snakes
- Check your snake’s weight and body shape often
- Change how often and how much you feed to keep a healthy weight
Improper Handling Techniques
Handling snakes wrong can stress them out, hurt them, or make them bite. When you handle your snake, remember:
- Hold the snake right, don’t move suddenly or squeeze too hard
- Don’t touch your snake right after it eats or when it sheds
- Wash your hands before and after touching your snake to prevent diseases
- Watch over kids and new handlers to keep everyone safe
Neglecting Enclosure Maintenance
Not keeping your snake’s home clean can make it sick. This can cause breathing problems, skin issues, and parasites. To keep your snake’s home safe:
- Clean the enclosure every day, take out waste and leftover food
- Change the substrate and clean the enclosure every month
- Keep water dishes, hides, and decorations clean
- Check and fix humidity levels to stop mold and breathing problems
| Garter Snake Care Mistake | Consequences | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Overfeeding | Obesity, liver disease, shortened lifespan | Feed appropriately sized meals, monitor weight |
| Improper Handling | Stress, injury, defensive biting | Support body properly, avoid handling after feeding or during shedding |
| Neglecting Enclosure Maintenance | Respiratory infections, skin problems, parasite infestations | Spot clean daily, full cleaning monthly, monitor humidity |
Avoiding these mistakes will keep your garter snake healthy and happy. Watch over your snake, take good care of its home, and love it. This will make your bond with your snake strong and lasting.
Conclusion
Garter snakes are great pets for those who want a low-maintenance reptile. This article covered how to care for them, from choosing the right species to feeding and handling. Knowing their needs and behaviors ensures a happy life for your pet.
To own a garter snake successfully, you need dedication and to do your homework. They are friendly and easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners and experts alike. Embarking on this journey means prioritizing your pet’s needs and making your home as safe as their native one. To learn more about garter snakes, read this report from Live Science.
With this guide, you have the tools to help your garter snake have a wonderful life. Have fun taking care of your pet and bond with it. With proper care, your garter snake should be a cheerful and interesting pet for years.
FAQ
What makes garter snakes good pets for beginners?
Garter snakes are one of the best snakes for beginners since they are easy to take care of. They are friendly and inexpensive. They also do really good in terrarium living.
What size enclosure does a pet garter snake need?
The size of the cage will be based on the length of the snake. A good rule of thumb is to provide a terrarium at least as long as the snake is tall and half as wide. So, a 30 inch snake requires a 30 x 15 size enclosure.
What do pet garter snakes eat?
Garter snakes eat a variety of things in the wild, like earthworms and fish. As pets, they mainly eat earthworms, fish, and sometimes pinkie mice. The diet changes based on the snake’s size and type.
How often should I feed my pet garter snake?
Feed baby garter snakes every 5-7 days. Adults can go 7-14 days between meals. How often you feed depends on the snake’s age, size, and how active it is. Don’t overfeed to avoid health problems.
What is the ideal temperature range for a garter snake enclosure?
Garter snakes need a warm spot of 85-90°F (29-32°C) and a cooler area of 75-80°F (24-27°C). The enclosure should have a temperature gradient for the snake to control its temperature. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature right.
How often should I clean my garter snake’s enclosure?
Clean the enclosure daily by removing waste and uneaten food. Change the substrate and clean everything every 4-6 weeks. This keeps your snake’s home clean and healthy.
Can I handle my pet garter snake daily?
Garter snakes are usually calm and okay with being handled. But, let them get used to their new home before handling them a lot. Once they’re comfortable, you can hold them for 10-15 minutes a few times a week. Always be gentle and support their body to avoid hurting them.
How can I tell if my garter snake is stressed or uncomfortable?
Look out for signs like hiding a lot, not eating, fast breathing, hissing, or musking. If you see these, check the enclosure’s temperature, humidity, and hiding spots. Adjust them to make your snake more comfortable.