Hypomelanistic African House Snake

African House Snakes are an excellent choice for beginner snake keepers thanks to their small size, hardy nature, and calm temperament. Here’s a comprehensive feeding and care guide for African House Snakes:

African House Snake Care Guide:

Enclosure Size:
Hatchlings: 10–15-gallon tank.
Adults: 20–30-gallon tank or appropriately sized tub in a... Read More

African House Snakes are an excellent choice for beginner snake keepers thanks to their small size, hardy nature, and calm temperament. Here’s a comprehensive feeding and care guide for African House Snakes:

African House Snake Care Guide:

Enclosure Size:
Hatchlings: 10–15-gallon tank.
Adults: 20–30-gallon tank or appropriately sized tub in a secure rack system.

Substrate: Aspen, coconut husk, or paper-based bedding.
Recommended: Coconut husk for odor control and burrowing behavior.

Hides: Minimum two hides (one on the warm side, one on the cool side).
Extra clutter (branches, fake plants, cork bark) helps them feel secure.

Humidity: 40–60% (increase slightly during shedding).
Mist lightly if needed, but avoid overly damp conditions.

Lighting: Heat mat or ceramic heat emitter regulated with a thermostat.
No UVB required, but a light cycle (12 hours on/off) is beneficial.

Temperature: Warm side: 85–88°F (29–31°C)
Cool side: 72–75°F (22–24°C)
Night drop: Not below 70°F (21°C)

Diet: Appropriately sized rodents (typically mice for most individuals).

Feeding Schedule:
Hatchlings: Every 5–7 days
Adults: Every 7–10 days
Offer frozen-thawed prey whenever possible; supervise if feeding live.
Fresh water should always be available in a spill-proof dish.

Handling: 
Generally calm but fast-moving—handle gently and confidently.
Allow at least 24–48 hours after feeding before handling to avoid regurgitation.