Gopher Snake Cape Health Information

In captivity, Cape Gopher Snakes are fed on mice and rats. They are content with either pre-killed or live food. They should not be fed at high temperatures as this can cause regurgitation, as can feeding them large animals. Warm temperatures can also cause behavioral problems. The Cape Gopher Snake prefers cooler temperatures than most other snakes and should not be kept at temperatures higher than 78 or 79 degrees Fahrenheit (25-26C). If the ambient cage temperature is less than 78 degrees, a basking spot about 80 degrees should be provided. They should be provided with a shallow water dish that will not spill, as the Cape Gopher Snake prefers dry conditions.

Breeding
To breed Cape Gopher Snakes, they should be placed in hibernation between late November and late February. Temperatures during hibernation should fluctuate between 55 and 53 degrees Fahrenheit (12.8-18.3C). After hibernation, mating will begin within about five weeks. The females usually breed prior to their first spring shed. About 45 days after copulation, the female lays clutches of between five and ten eggs. The laying usually begins after the first shed. Healthy, well-fed females may lay two clutches. The eggs should be incubated in moist vermiculite at about 82 degrees Fahrenheit for around 70 days.