Milksnake Sinaloan Health Information

In captivity the Sinaloan Milksnake should be housed in at least a 15 to 20 gallon aquarium, with an escape-proof screen lid. As far as lighting, normal indirect window lighting is sufficient. This species likes to burrow and it is important to provide enough substrate to make this possible. Some good choices are sand, small smooth gravel, wood chips (not cedar) pine shavings, aspen bedding, and maybe one-half of the tank covered in dry moss. It is equally important to provide hiding spots at both ends of temperature gradient (75 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit); these can be as simple as folded sheets of paper. If a temperature gradient cannot be provided the constant temperature should be maintained between 84 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Ventral heat is the preferred method for warming the tank, Milksnakes don't bask so using light to provide heat is inappropriate.

These snakes do well on a diet of mice; the size will vary depending on the size of the snake. After the first shed, hatchlings should be given a pinkie mouse once a week. They will show a small lump after feeding. The feeding habits of males and females are different and they should be fed accordingly. Adult males should be given one meal a week and they may not eat during mating season. Mature females should be fed two times per week for breeders. Gravid females should be given smaller prey items. Some females do not eat when gravid, but still offer prey frequently. Stop feeding two weeks before brumation. Some individuals may be problems feeders. If this is the case place them in a small, clean, dry cage, and provide a temperature gradient of 75 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit using a sub-tank heat source. Provide clean drinking water, an appropriate substrate and multiple hiding spots.

Because this snake may be ophiophagus (snake eating) it is not generally advised