Rhino Rat Snakes: The Complete Care Guide for These Unique Pet Snakes

An Introduction to Rhino Rat Snakes

Rhino rat snakes, also known as Vietnamese long-nosed snakes, are a unique and popular pet snake species. Their distinctive rhino-like snout sets them apart from other snakes, and they come in a variety of color morphs that make them visually appealing. These snakes are native to parts of Asia, where they live near bodies of water. Let's take a closer look at what makes rhino rat snakes such fascinating reptiles.

Appearance and Size

Rhino rat snakes have a heavy-bodied build and can reach lengths of 3-5 feet when fully grown. Their most distinctive feature is their rhinoceros-like snout which ends in a slightly upturned scale, giving them a perpetual "smile." Their background color can range from tan, brown, olive green, to slate gray. A key identifying feature is the black vertebral stripe that runs the length of their back. They may also have additional black blotches on their sides.

Temperament and Handling

Despite their imposing appearance, rhino rat snakes have a docile nature that makes them relatively easy to handle. They tend to move slowly and deliberately, rarely striking out defensively. With regular gentle handling when young, they can become quite tame pets. Their calm demeanor also makes them a good snake species for first-time or novice owners.

Native Habitat and Environment

In the wild, rhino rat snakes are found near lowland forests and jungles from Vietnam through southeast China. Their semi-aquatic nature means they are often found near streams, rice paddies, and other wet environments. They are adept climbers and swimmers in their natural habitat. Creating a vivarium habitat with both aquatic and dry elements can help captive rhino rat snakes thrive.

Housing and Enclosure

An enclosure for one or two adult rhino rat snakes should be at least 36” x 18” x 18.” Provide a substrate like cypress mulch that helps maintain humidity levels around 60%-80%. Include hiding spots like logs, cork bark, and artificial foliage for added security. A large sturdy water bowl big enough for soaking is ideal. Rhino rat snakes feel most comfortable when they can thermoregulate between 75°F on the cool end and 85°F on the warm end, so a heating pad or ceramic heat emitter is necessary.

Feeding Habits

In the wild, rhino rat snakes are voracious predators that feast on rodents, birds, eggs, frogs, and smaller reptiles. They use their pointed snout to root around in holes and crevices searching for prey. For pet snakes, feed thawed frozen rodents like mice and rats that are approximately the same width as the widest part of the snake's body. Young snakes can eat every 5-7 days while adults may only need feeding every 2-3 weeks.

Buying a Rhino Rat Snake

Due to their unique appearance and mellow temperament, rhino rat snakes have grown in popularity in the exotic pet trade. There are a few things to keep in mind when buying one of these snakes.

Choosing a Reputable Breeder

Always try to buy a rhino rat snake from a reputable breeder that specializes in captive-bred snakes. Avoid pet stores or sketchy online sellers, as the snake's origins may be questionable. Reputable breeders focus on healthy bloodlines and ethically sourcing their snakes.

Basic Genetic Morphs

Rhino rat snakes have been selectively bred into some color and pattern morphs. The three most common are:

• Normal/Wild Type: Grayish-brown base color with black vertebral stripe
• Albino: Lack black pigment while keeping yellows and oranges
• Lavender: Diluted gray/purple base color

Price Range

In general, rhino rat snakes cost between $50-$250 depending on the breeder, genetics, and morph. Rare designer morphs can sometimes demand prices over $500. Be prepared to pay a fair price for a healthy, ethically bred snake.

Buying Captive Bred vs Wild Caught

Whenever possible, try to buy a captive-bred snake as opposed to wild caught. Wild caught snakes tend to have more health issues and be less acclimated to thrive in captivity. Captive bred snakes make for better pets.

Caring for Your Rhino Rat Snake

Caring for a rhino rat snake requires proper housing, feeding, handling, and health monitoring. With their basic needs met, rhino rat snakes can live 15-20 years in captivity!

Quarantine Period

Before introducing a new snake to any existing pets, keep it isolated for at least 90 days. This quarantine period lets you monitor its health and prevents any contagious issues being passed on.

Ideal Temperature Gradient

Use a quality thermostat and heating elements to maintain a temperature gradient in the enclosure. Cool end temps around 75°F and warm end around 85°F work best.

Humidity and Hydration

Mist the enclosure periodically to keep humidity between 60%-80%. Always provide a large water container, as rhino rat snakes like to soak regularly.

Develop a Feeding Routine

Establish a consistent feeding routine 1-2 times a week for juveniles, scaling down to every 2-3 weeks for adult snakes. Never handle your snake after feeding or disturb it during the digestion process.

Health Problems

Monitor for signs of common health issues like respiratory infections, mites, intestinal blockages, scale rot, and mouth rot. Seek vet care if your snake shows prolonged signs of illness or stress.

Shedding Aid

Provide a humid hide box and mist more frequently when your snake enters a shed cycle. This helps them shed their skin properly.

Why the Rhino Rat Snake Makes a Great Pet

Here's a quick recap of what makes the rhino rat snake such an awesome pet snake species:

• Hardy reptile that adjusts well to captivity
• Doesn't grow overly large like some snakes
• Relatively tame and docile temperament
• Lower-maintenance care requirements
• Cool rhino-horned snout adds visual interest
• Great snake for first-time or novice owners
• Long captive lifespan up to 20 years

Rhino rat snakes have a perfect blend of unique appearance, mellow personality, manageable size, and hardiness that makes them excellent pet snakes. Following the care guidelines outlined and buying from a responsible breeder sets the stage for a mutually rewarding relationship between owner and snake!

FAQs

How big do rhino rat snakes get?

Rhino rat snakes typically reach lengths of 3-5 feet when fully grown. They are a moderately sized snake species.

What do rhino rat snakes eat?

In the wild rhino rat snakes are voracious predators, eating rodents, birds, eggs, and other small animals. Pet rhino rat snakes can be fed a diet of thawed frozen rodents like mice and rats.

Are rhino rat snakes venomous?

No, rhino rat snakes are non-venomous constrictor snakes. They subdue their prey through constriction versus using venom.

How often should I feed a rhino rat snake?

Hatchling and juvenile rhino rat snakes can be fed 1-2 times per week. Adult snakes only need feeding every 2-3 weeks.

What heating and lighting do rhino rat snakes need?

A temperature gradient from 75°F on the cool end to 85°F on the warm end works best. No special lighting is required, only a 12-14 hour light cycle.