Rough Green Snakes as Pets: Key Facts You Need to Know

Native to the southeastern United States, Rough Green Snakes have become increasingly popular as pets due to their stunning green coloration, gentle temperament, and manageable size. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about keeping Rough Green Snakes as pets, from their general behavior to habitat requirements.

Quick Reference Table: Rough Green Snake Facts

Fact	Description
Scientific Name	Opheodrys aestivus
Average Size	2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Average Lifespan	5-8 years in captivity
Temperament	Gentle, docile, and non-aggressive
Primary Food Source	Insects, such as crickets, moths, and small spiders

How Are Rough Green Snakes as Pets?

Rough Green Snakes make excellent pets for those who are fascinated by reptiles and want a low-maintenance, non-aggressive pet. They are well-suited for beginners and experienced reptile owners alike, thanks to their easygoing nature and relatively simple care requirements.

Pros and Cons of Rough Green Snakes

Pros:

• Stunning green coloration
• Gentle temperament
• Non-aggressive
• Low maintenance

Cons:

• May be challenging to find captive-bred specimens
• Can be sensitive to stress
• Not as interactive as some other reptile pets

Rough Green Snake Behavior and Temperament

Rough Green Snakes are known for their docile and gentle nature, making them a great choice for those who want a pet snake that is easy to handle. They are not known for being aggressive and generally prefer to avoid confrontation by fleeing or hiding.

How Much Do Rough Green Snakes Cost?

Rough Green Snakes themselves can be quite affordable, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 depending on factors such as age and size. However, the initial setup costs for their enclosure, heating, and lighting can add up quickly. Ongoing expenses will include food and occasional replacement of substrate and other habitat components.

Rough Green Snake Lifespan: Time and Commitment

Rough Green Snakes have a relatively short lifespan compared to other snake species, typically living 5-8 years in captivity. Before committing to a pet Rough Green Snake, prospective owners should be prepared to provide consistent care throughout the snake’s life, including regular feeding, habitat maintenance, and occasional veterinary care if needed.

Rough Green Snake Size

Rough Green Snakes typically reach an adult size of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in length. Their slender bodies make them appear smaller than they actually are, and they are easy to handle due to their lightweight and manageable size.

Rough Green Snake Species

The Rough Green Snake is a single species within the genus Opheodrys. However, there is a closely related species called the Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis), which has similar care requirements and appearance, but a smoother dorsal scale texture.

Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)

The Rough Green Snake is characterized by its bright green coloration, keeled dorsal scales, and gentle temperament. It is native to the southeastern United States and prefers habitats with dense vegetation near water sources.

Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)

The Smooth Green Snake has a similar appearance to the Rough Green Snake but is distinguished by its smooth dorsal scales. It is found in a wider range of habitats across North America, from the central United States to southern Canada.

Rough Green Snake Colors, Looks, and Appearances

Rough Green Snakes areknown for their vibrant green coloration, which helps them blend into their natural habitat among trees and vegetation. Their undersides are a lighter green or yellowish-green, and they have large, round eyes that give them a curious and engaging appearance. The keeled scales on their dorsal side give them a slightly rough texture, hence their name.

Rough Green Snake Care Guide

Proper care is essential for ensuring the health and happiness of your Rough Green Snake. Below, we’ll cover the key aspects of their care, including habitat setup, heating, lighting, and feeding.

Rough Green Snake Habitat: Tank and Housing

Creating a suitable habitat is crucial for the well-being of your Rough Green Snake. This includes choosing the right size tank, selecting the proper enclosure type, and providing appropriate furnishings and decorations.

Appropriate Rough Green Snake Tank Size

A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for adult Rough Green Snakes. A larger enclosure is always better, as it provides more space for the snake to explore and climb.

Types of Enclosures

Glass or plastic terrariums with a secure, well-ventilated lid are suitable for housing Rough Green Snakes. Arboreal enclosures are ideal, as these snakes are excellent climbers and will appreciate the extra height.

Substrate Options

Choose a substrate that retains humidity well, such as coconut coir, cypress mulch, or sphagnum moss. Avoid substrates that may cause impaction if ingested, such as sand or small bark chips.

Heating and Lighting Requirements

Rough Green Snakes require a temperature gradient within their enclosure, with a basking area of 85-90°F (29-32°C) and a cooler area of 70-75°F (21-24°C). Provide a heat lamp or under-tank heater to maintain the appropriate temperatures. Additionally, they need access to full-spectrum UVB lighting to properly metabolize calcium and maintain overall health.

Humidity and Temperature Control

Maintaining proper humidity is essential for Rough Green Snakes, as they come from humid environments. Aim for a humidity level of 60-70% by misting the enclosure daily and providing a large water dish for soaking. Use a reliable digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.

Furnishings and Decorations

Provide plenty of climbing opportunities for your Rough Green Snake, such as branches, vines, and plants. Artificial or live plants can be used to create a naturalistic environment that mimics their native habitat. A hiding place should also be provided to help your snake feel secure and reduce stress.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your Rough Green Snake. Spot clean the enclosure by removing soiled substrate and replacing it with fresh material. Conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire enclosure, including the replacement of substrate, at least once a month. Always wash your hands before and after handling your snake or cleaning its enclosure to reduce the risk of transmitting diseases or parasites.

Rough Green Snakes Food: Diet and Nutrition

Feeding Frequency and Schedule

Rough Green Snakes should be fed every 2-3 days, with younger snakes requiring more frequent feedings. As they grow and age, you can adjust the feeding schedule to every 4-5 days. It’s important to monitor your snake’s weight and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.

What do Rough Green Snakes Eat?

Rough Green Snakes are primarily insectivores, meaning they eat insects. Their diet consists of crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and other insects. In addition, they may also eat spiders and small invertebrates. Be sure to provide a variety of insects to ensure a balanced diet for your snake.

Rough Green Snakes Treats

Occasionally, you can offer your Rough Green Snake small treats like moths, grasshoppers, or soft-bodied insects. This can provide enrichment and encourage natural hunting behaviors. Remember to offer treats in moderation and never as a replacement for their regular diet.

Foods to Avoid

Avoid feeding your Rough Green Snake any insects that have been exposed to pesticides or chemicals, as these can be harmful to your snake. Also, avoid feeding your snake insects that you’ve caught yourself, as wild-caught insects can carry parasites and diseases.

Supplements and Vitamins

To ensure your Rough Green Snake receives proper nutrients, it’s essential to dust their insect prey with calcium and vitamin supplements. You can use a commercial reptile calcium powder and a multivitamin supplement to achieve this. Dust the insects every other feeding to maintain a balanced diet.

Hydration

Provide your Rough Green Snake with a shallow water dish to drink from, ensuring that it’s always clean and fresh. These snakes also enjoy misting, so you can lightly mist their enclosure daily to provide them with additional hydration and maintain humidity levels.

Handling and Socialization

Taming and Bonding

Rough Green Snakes are generally docile creatures but may be shy and nervous when first introduced to their new home. To build trust and bond with your snake, handle them gently and consistently for short periods. Over time, your snake will become more comfortable with you and may even enjoy being handled.

Safe Handling Techniques

When handling your Rough Green Snake, be gentle and supportive, using both hands to cradle their body. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, as these can stress your snake. Remember to always wash your hands before and after handling your snake to prevent the spread of germs and parasites.

Signs of Stress and Illness

It’s essential to monitor your Rough Green Snake for signs of stress and illness. Common signs of stress include rapid breathing, excessive hiding, and refusing to eat. If your snake exhibits these symptoms, it’s best to consult a reptile veterinarian for guidance.

Introducing Rough Green Snakes to Other Pets

While Rough Green Snakes can coexist with other reptiles in a large and well-designed enclosure, it’s essential to monitor their interactions closely. If you notice any signs of aggression or stress, separate the animals immediately and provide them with their own enclosures.

Health and Wellness

Common Health Issues

Some common health issues in Rough Green Snakes include respiratory infections, parasites, and metabolic bone disease. Regularly monitoring your snake’s health, maintaining a clean enclosure, and providing a balanced diet can help prevent these issues.

Signs of a Healthy Rough Green Snake

A healthy Rough Green Snake should have clear eyes, smooth scales, and a strong, flicking tongue. They should be active and alert, with a good appetite and regular shedding. If you notice any changes in your snake’s behavior or appearance, consult a reptile veterinarian for advice.

Preventative Care

Preventative care for your Rough Green Snake includes maintaining a clean and stress-free environment, providing a proper diet, and scheduling regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your snake remains healthy and happy.

Finding a Reptile Veterinarian

It’s important to find a qualified reptile veterinarian for your Rough Green Snake, as they can provide specialized care and advice. To find a reputable vet, ask for recommendations from other reptile owners, online forums, or local pet stores.

Breeding and Reproduction

Determining Gender

Sexing Rough Green Snakes can be challenging, as males and females have similar appearances. However, males tend to have slightly longer and thicker tails. To determine the gender of your snake, it’s best to consult a reptile veterinarian or experienced breeder.

Mating Behavior and Courtship

Rough Green Snakes mate during spring and early summer. Male snakes will court females by rubbing their bodies against the female’s, sometimes engaging in a “dance” to attract her. If the female is receptive, she will allow the male to copulate with her.

Gravidity and Egg-laying

After mating, female Rough Green Snakes become gravid and will lay 3-12 eggs within 4-6 weeks. The female will lay her eggs in a moist, hidden spot like a rotting log or leaf litter. It’s essential to provide a suitable egg-laying area in the enclosure if you plan to breed your snakes.

Incubation and Hatching

Rough Green Snake eggs typically incubate for 6-8 weeks before hatching. During this time, it’s important to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels for successful incubation. Once the eggs hatch, the baby snakes are fully independent and ready to start eating small insects.

Caring for Hatchlings

When caring for Rough Green Snake hatchlings, it’s essential to provide a separate enclosure with appropriate temperatures, humidity, and hiding spots. Feed the hatchlings small insects and monitor their growth and development closely. With proper care, the hatchlings will grow into healthy adult snakes.

Are Rough Green Snakes Legal?

Before owning a Rough Green Snake, it’s essential to check your local laws and regulations regarding reptile ownership. In most areas, Rough Green Snakes are legal to own as pets, but it’s crucial to ensure you’re following all guidelines and obtaining any necessary permits.

Popular Names for Rough Green Snakes

Here are some fun and interesting names for your Rough Green Snake:

• Emerald
• Slimer
• Jade
• Verde
• Rango
• Slinky
• Green Bean

Conclusion: Should You Own Rough Green Snakes as Pets?

Rough Green Snakes can make fascinating and rewarding pets for the right owner. They require a specific environment, diet, and care routine, but with proper attention, they can thrive in captivity. If you’re prepared to provide the necessary care and dedicate time to bond with your snake, owning a Rough Green Snake can be a unique and enjoyable experience. Remember always to be a responsible pet owner and consider the long-term commitment before bringing a Rough Green Snake into your life.

FAQ for Pet Rough Green Snakes

Q: Are Rough Green Snakes good pets?

A: Yes, Rough Green Snakes can be good pets for those who appreciate their shy and arboreal nature.

Q: Can Rough Green Snakes eat grapes?

A: No, Rough Green Snakes are insectivores and should not eat grapes or other fruits.

Q: Can Rough Green Snakes eat bananas?

A: No, they should not eat bananas. They primarily eat insects.

Q: How often do Rough Green Snakes eat?

A: Rough Green Snakes should be fed every 2-3 days, depending on their size and age.

Q: How long do Rough Green Snakes live?

A: In captivity, they can live up to 15 years with proper care.

Q: Where are Rough Green Snakes native?

A: They are native to the southeastern United States.

Q: Are Rough Green Snakes friendly?

A: They are generally shy and may not be as interactive as other pet snakes.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes bite?

A: They rarely bite, but can if they feel threatened or stressed.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes like to be held?

A: They may tolerate handling, but generally prefer to be left alone.

Q: Are Rough Green Snakes nocturnal?

A: They are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes pee?

A: Yes, they excrete waste through their cloaca, which includes both urine and feces.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes hibernate?

A: They may brumate, a form of hibernation, in colder months in the wild. In captivity, this is not necessary.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes make noise?

A: They are generally quiet, but may occasionally hiss if threatened.

Q: Are Rough Green Snakes venomous or poisonous?

A: No, they are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans.

Q: Are Rough Green Snakes smart?

A: They have basic problem-solving skills, but their intelligence is not well-studied.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes need heat at night?

A: Yes, they need a temperature gradient in their enclosure, including a warmer basking spot and cooler areas.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes lay eggs?

A: Yes, they lay eggs and have an oviparous reproductive cycle.

Q: Do Rough Green Snakes smell?

A: They do not have a strong odor, but their waste can produce a smell if not cleaned regularly.