What Do You Need for a King Snake Habitat? (King Snake Checklist)

King snakes are very popular pet snakes because they’re really easy to take care of, pretty friendly and they don’t get too big. They get to 4 feet long in most cases but can sometimes grow up to 5 feet long.

Below is the list of things you will need for a pet king snake.

King Snake Habitat Checklist

Equipment	Quantity
Terrarium/Vivarium	1 (40 to 120 Gallons)
Substrate	Sufficient to cover terrarium floor
Hiding spots	2-3
Climbing branch	1-2
Heat source	1
Thermometer & Hygrometer	1 each
Water dish	1
Food (Rodents)	Depending on feeding schedule

1. Terrarium/Vivarium

The terrarium, also referred to as a vivarium, is the most critical part of your setup. For an adult King Snake, you need a secure enclosure measuring at least 40 gallons. Due to the snake’s active nature, a larger space will be appreciated.

We at MyPetReptiles, recommend a 120-gallon enclosure for adult king snakes.

2. Substrate

In the wild, King Snakes spend a lot of their time burrowing, so it’s essential to have a substrate that allows them to exhibit this behavior. Aspen shavings, newspaper, or reptile carpet are excellent choices. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as these can cause respiratory issues in snakes.

3. Hiding Spots

Two to three hiding spots are required to ensure your snake feels secure. These can be anything from commercial reptile hides to simple cardboard boxes.

4. Climbing Branches

Despite being largely terrestrial, King Snakes do enjoy climbing. Include a sturdy branch or two for your snake to explore.

5. Heat Source

King Snakes are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. A heat mat or ceramic heat emitter can help maintain a suitable temperature gradient within the enclosure.

6. Thermometer & Hygrometer

Monitoring the temperature and humidity within the enclosure is vital. A thermometer will ensure that your heat source is maintaining the correct temperature, while a hygrometer will ensure the humidity is at a safe level.

7. Water Dish

A water dish large enough for your snake to soak in is necessary. This not only provides drinking water but can also assist with shedding.

8. Food

King Snakes primarily eat rodents, which should be offered every 10-14 days for adults and every 5-7 days for juveniles.

This assertive guide is not mere conjecture; it’s a result of years of firsthand experience and a deep understanding of King Snakes. These guidelines should serve as a strong foundation in setting up a King Snake habitat, offering your reptile a safe, secure, and stimulating environment.