African House Snakes

African House Snake (Lamprophis fuliginosus)

Overview

The African House Snake is a small, hardy, and easy-to-care-for species native to sub-Saharan Africa. Known for their gentle nature and adaptability, African House Snakes are ideal for beginner snake owners. Their manageable size, ease of handling, and interesting behavior make them a popular choice for those new to keeping snakes or for experienced keepers looking for a low-maintenance pet.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adults typically reach 2-4 feet in length, with females generally larger than males.
• Lifespan: With proper care, African House Snakes can live 10-15 years in captivity.
• Appearance: African House Snakes have a streamlined body with a smooth, glossy appearance. They are usually dark brown to black in color, often with lighter markings along their body. Some morphs are available with variations in color and pattern, which can range from reddish-brown to lighter shades.

Housing

• Enclosure: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a single adult House Snake, though larger enclosures will allow them to explore and exercise. African House Snakes are ground dwellers, so they don’t require a lot of vertical space.
• Substrate: Use substrates like aspen bedding, coconut husk, or reptile-safe soil. These substrates help maintain humidity levels and are comfortable for burrowing, which African House Snakes enjoy.
• Hides and Enrichment: Provide at least two hides (one on the warm side and one on the cool side), as well as logs, plants, or rocks for enrichment. A water dish large enough for soaking is also essential.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature gradient with a warm side of 85-90°F and a cooler side around 75°F. At night, temperatures can drop to 70-75°F.
• Heating: Use a heat mat or heat lamp to create a warm spot, allowing the snake to thermoregulate by moving between cooler and warmer areas.
• Humidity: Keep humidity around 40-60%. This species tolerates moderate humidity well, and misting occasionally or adding a water dish can help maintain proper levels. African House Snakes are resilient to slight variations in humidity but benefit from a consistent environment.

Lighting

• Lighting: African House Snakes do not require UVB lighting but benefit from a regular day-night cycle (12 hours light, 12 hours dark).
• Heat Source: Since they require a warm basking spot, use an under-tank heater or a low-wattage heat lamp to ensure the enclosure meets their thermal needs.

Feeding

• Diet: African House Snakes are primarily rodent-eaters and will thrive on a diet of appropriately sized mice.
• Feeding: Juveniles should be fed every 5-7 days with small pinky mice, while adults can be fed larger mice every 7-10 days. Offering frozen-thawed mice is recommended to reduce the risk of injury.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed juveniles more frequently than adults, adjusting portion sizes based on the snake’s age and activity level.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: African House Snakes are generally docile and can be easily handled with regular, gentle interaction. Approach slowly and handle with care, as they may be skittish at first but quickly become comfortable with handling.
• Behavior: African House Snakes are curious and often active, especially at night as they are primarily nocturnal. They are not aggressive, making them a good choice for owners interested in a pet snake that enjoys exploring its environment.

Health and Veterinary Care

• Common Issues: Monitor for respiratory infections, skin shedding issues, and parasites. African House Snakes are hardy but benefit from a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity levels.
• Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian are recommended, especially for newly acquired snakes, to ensure they remain healthy.

Conclusion

African House Snakes are an excellent choice for reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels. Their manageable size, docile nature, and ease of care make them an enjoyable and low-maintenance pet. With the right setup and regular handling, African House Snakes will thrive in captivity, providing years of enjoyment for their keepers.