Snakes have been around for over 100 million years, evolving from prehistoric lizards.1 With nearly 4,000 species found on every continent except Antarctica, snakes have adapted to a wide range of habitats. They are also often misunderstood reptiles.
However, not all snakes are to be feared. Here are the 15 friendliest snake species that make excellent pets for reptile enthusiasts of all levels.
1. Corn Snake
Corn snakes are a classic choice for beginner snake owners due to their docile nature and easy care requirements. These colorful constrictors come in various morphs, ranging from vibrant oranges to striking albinos.
- Average length: 3-5 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Native to: Southeastern United States
- Adaptable to various habitats
2. Ball Python
Ball pythons are another popular choice for pet snake owners, known for their calm demeanor and reluctance to bite. These African natives are named for their tendency to curl up into a tight ball when threatened rather than striking out.
- Average length: 3-5 feet
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Over 6,500 recognized color and pattern morphs
- Docile and easy to handle
3. Rosy Boa
Rosy boas are small, attractive snakes native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. They are known for their gentle disposition and tolerance for handling, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- One of the smaller boa species
- Range of earthy tones with striped or speckled patterns
4. California Kingsnake
California kingsnakes are another North American native known for their bold, eye-catching patterns and easygoing personalities. These constrictors are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, which can make them more engaging pets.
- Average length: 3-4 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Escape artists; require secure enclosures
- Hardy and easy to care for
5. Hognose Snake
Hognose snakes are small, stout-bodied snakes with upturned snouts, giving them a distinctly adorable appearance. They are known for their dramatic defensive displays, which include hissing, false strikes, and even playing dead.
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Rarely bite; tame down quickly with handling
- Unique defensive behaviors
6. Garter Snake
Garter snakes are small, active snakes found throughout North America. They are often considered a “starter” snake due to their hardiness, small size, and generally docile nature.
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- One of the smallest pet snake species
- Variety of colors and patterns
7. Milk Snake
Milk snakes are colorful, medium-sized constrictors native to North and Central America. They are often confused with the venomous coral snake due to their similar appearance, but milk snakes are harmless and make great pets.
- Average length: 3-5 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Vibrant red, black, and yellow bands
- Mimics appearance of venomous coral snake
8. Kenyan Sand Boa
Kenyan sand boas are small, stout-bodied snakes native to the arid regions of East Africa. They are known for their docile nature and tolerance for handling, making them a great choice for beginners.
- Average length: 1-2 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- One of the smallest boa species
- Unique appearance with small eyes, blunt tail, and shovel-shaped head
9. Rough Green Snake
Rough green snakes are slender, arboreal snakes native to the eastern United States. They are known for their vibrant green coloration, which provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Docile and tolerate handling well
- Delicate build; require gentle care
10. Dekay’s Brown Snake
Dekay’s brown snakes are small, secretive snakes native to the eastern United States. They are often overlooked as pets due to their plain appearance, but they are known for their gentle disposition and ease of care.
- Average length: 9-13 inches
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- One of the smallest pet snake species
- Nocturnal; spends much time hidden
11. Children’s Python
Children’s pythons are small, slender pythons native to Australia. They are named for John Children, the curator of the British Museum who first described the species in 1842.
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- One of the smallest python species
- Calm demeanor; tolerates handling well
12. Rubber Boa
Rubber boas are small, stout-bodied snakes native to western North America. They are known for their smooth, rubbery skin and their docile nature, making them a popular choice for pet owners.
- Average length: 1.5-2.5 feet
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- One of the smaller boa species
- Nocturnal; tolerates handling when acclimated
13. Ringneck Snake
Ringneck snakes are small, slender snakes native to North America. They are named for the distinctive ring around their neck, which can be yellow, orange, or red, depending on the subspecies.
- Average length: 10-15 inches
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- One of the smallest pet snake species
- Docile but can be nervous; requires gentle handling
14. Sonoran Gopher Snake
Sonoran gopher snakes are medium-sized, non-venomous snakes native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. They are known for their docile nature and ease of care, making them a great choice for intermediate snake owners.
- Average length: 3-5 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Variety of color morphs available
- Tolerate handling well; rarely bite
15. African House Snake
African house snakes are small, slender snakes native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are named for their tendency to inhabit human dwellings, where they hunt for rodents and other small prey.
- Great choice for beginners
- Average length: 3-4 feet
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Calm demeanor; easy to care for
The world of pet snakes is filled with friendly species that make excellent companions for reptile lovers. With their unique personalities, stunning appearances, and relatively easy care requirements, these snakes can provide years of enjoyment and companionship.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.