Feeding a Milk Snake Hatchling

Milk snake hatchlings feed on small rodents, moles and eggs in the wild. However, in captivity they feed on pinky mice. Because snakes are vulnerable when they feed, small enclosures that offer the opportunity to hide and consume their meal encourage good eating habits. Tank conditions such as temperature should be at their optimal level to reduce unnecessary stress or cause dehydration to ensure hatchlings are healthy enough to be capable of consuming and digesting their prey.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean, dry plastic cup or bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Pinky mice (alive or dead)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place and stabilize the bowl in the bottom of the hatchling tank in between the cooler and warmer parts of the tank.

    • 2

      Line the bottom of the bowl with a paper towel.

    • 3

      Allow a few minutes for the dish and substrate to become the same temperature as the other dishes in the tank environment. This prevents the dish from lowering the body temperature of the snake while feeding.

    • 4

      Gently pick up a single hatchling, making sure to support the entire length of the body with your fingers.

    • 5

      Gently lay the hatchling inside the the bowl on top of the paper towel. This reduces the amount of distance the hatchling must cover to obtain its meal.

    • 6

      Gently place (do not drop) a small pinky mouse inside the small dish with the hatchling.

    • 7

      Place a piece of clean, dry paper towel over the bowl. This allows the hatchling privacy to feed.

    • 8

      Allow the hatchling time to recognize his meal and eat on his own.

    • 9

      Feed hatchling snakes every five to seven days.