Milk Snake Habitat Checklist (Things Needed for a Milk Snake)

Milk snakes come in a variety of colors and patterns. They are NOT venomous and will tolerate moderate handling. They are very easy to take care of and do not require very much room. Milk snakes also only eat once a week. Compare that to a cat or dog! Milk snakes make wonderful pets if you are willing to properly care for them.

Here is the list of things you will need to care for your milk snake.

1. Enclosure

Milksnakes typically measure 48 inches (122 cm) or smaller in length, indicating that the minimum enclosure size for an average milksnake should be 48”L x 24”W x 24”H. This calculation is derived from the formula used to determine a snake’s minimum space requirements:

snake length x half snake length x half snake length = length x width x height

At ReptMags, we strongly recommend providing milksnakes with enclosures larger than the minimum size. Remember, bigger is always better! This is particularly important for milksnake species that are known to grow larger than 48 inches (122 cm) in length.

Some of the best cages for milk snakes are:

• Repti Zoo 36″ x 18″ x 18″ Reptile Terrarium
• Custom Reptile Habitats 3 Foot Reptile Enclosure
• Exo Terra 36″ x 18″ x 18″ All-Glass Terrarium
• Carolina Custom Cages Large 36″ x 18″ x 18″

2. Heat Mat or Under Tank Heater

You will need to put an under-tank heater (UTH) or heat mat under 1/3 of the tank. The enclosure must have two sides; the warmer and the cooler side. Make sure the warmer side is somewhere between 81-85 and a cool side at room temperature.

We recommend Zoomed Reptitherm Undertank Heater.

3. Thermometer

To know the exact temperature inside the enclosure you will need a thermostat to control your heat source (UTH) and overall temperature. We recommend getting two; one for the cooler side and one for the warmer side.

To regulate proper temperature you will need a thermometer. We recommend Zoo Med Economy Analog Dual Thermometer and Humidity Gauge.

4. Substrate

A substrate is what lies on the bottom of the enclosure. We recommend aspen shavings as they are the most popular type of bedding to use for milk snakes. You can also use shredded newspaper if you want.

I personally use Aspen bedding for my corn snake. It provides another “hide” and is easy to clean up. Do not use Pine & Cedar shavings.

5. Water Dish

You will need a water dish with fresh clean water at all times inside the enclosure. Here is a list of recommended water dishes for corn snakes:

• Exo Terra Water Dish, Water Bowl for Reptiles
• ELDETU Reptile Food Water Dish

6. Hiding Spots

Hiding places are extremely important for milk snakes. They need a hiding place to feel safe when they are stressed out.

7. Hygrometer

The humidity level for milk snakes should be in the 40% – 60% range. To control the humidity level inside the enclosure we recommend getting a hygrometer. We recommend Zoo Med Economy Analog Dual Thermometer and Humidity Gauge.

8. Food

Feed mice or rats (depending on size) to your milk snake. You can also feed them Live or Frozen rodents.