Rat snakes are one of the most popular groups of snakes kept in captivity. They are easily obtainable come in a wide variety of colours and sizes and are generally quite docile. However they can be finicky eaters and so it is important to know what they should be eating in order to keep them healthy.
The diet of a rat snake in the wild will depend on the species as well as the geographical location. Some rat snakes are strictly carnivorous while others are known to eat both animals and plants. The most common food items for rat snakes are rodents such as mice and rats although they will also eat birds lizards and other snakes.
In captivity the diet of a rat snake should consist of frozen-thawed rodents. It is important to offer a variety of different sizes of prey as this will ensure that the snake is getting the nutrients it needs. Live prey should be avoided as this can be dangerous for both the snake and the prey animal.
If you are unsure of what size of prey to offer your rat snake a good rule of thumb is to offer food that is the same diameter as the snake’s body at its widest point. This will ensure that the snake is able to eat the prey without any difficulty and will also help to prevent obesity.
It is important to remember that snakes are not designed to eat large meals so they should be offered food items that they can easily digest. If you are still unsure about what to feed your rat snake it is always best to speak to a reptile veterinarian for advice.
What do rat snakes eat?
Rat snakes eat rats.
Do rat snakes eat anything other than rats?
Rat snakes will also eat other small animals such as mice lizards and birds.
How often do rat snakes eat?
Rat snakes typically eat every 5 to 10 days.
How do rat snakes kill their prey?
Rat snakes kill their prey by constriction.
What is the preferred habitat of rat snakes?
Rat snakes prefer areas with a lot of trees and vegetation.
Are rat snakes venomous?
No rat snakes are not venomous.
Are rat snakes dangerous to humans?
While rat snakes are not venomous they can still bite and their bite can be painful.
If you are allergic to snakes you may have a more serious reaction to a rat snake bite.
How can you tell the difference between a rat snake and a venomous snake?
One way to tell the difference between a rat snake and a venomous snake is by looking at the shape of the head.
Rat snakes have a narrower and more triangular head while venomous snakes have a wider and more triangular head.
What is the average length of a rat snake?
The average length of a rat snake is 3 to 4 feet.
What is the average lifespan of a rat snake?
The average lifespan of a rat snake is 10 to 20 years.
How do rat snakes reproduce?
Rat snakes reproduce by laying eggs.
How many eggs does a rat snake typically lay?
A rat snake will typically lay between 4 and 24 eggs.
Where do rat snakes lay their eggs?
Rat snakes will lay their eggs in a hidden and safe place such as in a hollow tree or in a nest of leaves.
How long does it take for rat snake eggs to hatch?
Rat snake eggs will typically hatch between 6 and 8 weeks.
What do baby rat snakes eat?
Baby rat snakes will eat small insects and spiders.
