How to Feed Gopher Snakes

Gopher snakes that are housed in captivity should be fed dead prey. If live prey is introduced into the cage and the snake is not hungry, the prey may harm or kill the snake. They feed about every 10 days, and size of the prey should be in relation to the size of the snake. Neonates eat pinkies, juvenile snakes eat fuzzies, and hopper, weanlings and adults eat small to large mice, depending on their size.

Things You'll Need

  • Dead prey
  • Freezer paper
  • Tape
  • Large resealable freezer bag
  • Permanent marker
  • Tongs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a supply of dead mice and wrap them individually in freezer paper; secure with tape. Try your local herpetology association for prey.

    • 2

      Place the wrapped mice in a large freezer bag and seal it. Write snake food on the bag so the contents are easily identifiable. Place the bag in the freezer

    • 3

      Remove one package of frozen prey from the freezer early on feeding day and allow it to defrost at room temperature. Some snakes may eat frozen or partially frozen mice; experiment to see what yours prefers.

    • 4

      Pick up the mouse by the tail with a pair of tongs and place it in the snake's cage. If you have handled your snake for a while, and it is familiar with you, you may hold the prey in front of it so it may can strike at it; otherwise, just drop it.

    • 5

      Wash your hands after handling prey, so its scent does not remain on your skin. This will help prevent the snake from striking at you when you reach in the cage after a feeding.

    • 6

      Provide fresh water at all times. Clean and disinfect the water bowl often.