How to Care for an African House Snake

The African house snake (Lamprophis fuliginosus) is a type of reptile from Africa. This snake is in the family Colubridae, the same family that contains the more well known corn, king, rat and milk snakes. Although they are gaining in popularity, many people still aren't aware of this beautiful species of snake. With their small size (adults average 3 to 4 feet in length), calm disposition and ease of care, African house snakes make great pet snakes for the beginning reptile enthusiast as well as the experienced keeper.

Things You'll Need

  • Enclosure
  • Heat source
  • Digital thermometer
  • Bedding
  • Water bowl
  • Hide boxes
  • Mice
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase an appropriate enclosure for the snake. African house snakes do well in 10 and 20 gallon glass aquariums. Other suitable choices include plastic shoe box containers, as well as enclosures specifically made for snakes.

    • 2

      Provide a suitable heat source. Heating pads that are made for snakes, such as Ultratherm heat pads, are good choices. Place the heat pad underneath one end of the enclosure. The cage should have a hot spot of 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit on the cool side. A digital thermometer with a probe is a good way to precisely measure temperatures.

    • 3

      Choose a bedding such as cypress mulch, aspen wood shavings or newspaper. Bedding will allow the enclosure to be easily cleaned.

    • 4

      Provide a water bowl large enough for the snake to fit inside it. The water bowl is for drinking, soaking and to help maintain humidity. Ceramic dog bowls work well because they are easy to clean and hard for the snake to tip over.

    • 5

      Place a hide box on each side of the enclosure. This will provide a feeling of security for the snake. Suitable hide box choices include upside-down flower pots with an opening cut in them, as well as opaque Rubbermaid containers. There are also many commercially available reptile hide boxes to choose from.

    • 6

      Feed the snake once every seven to 10 days. African house snakes can be fed mice their entire lives. The mouse should be as large as or slightly bigger than the thickest part of the snake.