The Western Hognose - a perfect pet. (Western Hognose)

Member Name: Yvonne Wilson

Product:	Western Hognose
Date:	18/02/09 (381 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Small, easy and cheap to keep, fascinating to look at and observe.

Disadvantages: None - this snake is a delight to own.

Thw Western Hognose is a delightful little snake to keep. I've been keeping snakes for 25 years but got my first "hoggy" just last autumn. He's still a baby and has just taken his first three-pinkie meal.

When I first got him he hissed and rattled his tail rather amusingly and headbutted every time I went to pick him up but once he adjusted to life with me and realised I was no threat that behaviour ceased and he now enjoys being picked up and handled. He likes curling up in my palm and being stroked on the back of the head.

At this stage he's still in a shoe-box style vivarium, albeit a larger one now, and on kitchen paper. He has a cave to hide in and a water bowl and is thriving.

Other reviews have covered all the facts about the equipment and temperature ranges etc needed to care for one of these lovely creatures, but I wanted to stress the temperament. The word "venomous" can strike fear into the heart of many a person and it would be such a shame if this adorable little snake was overlooked for that reason. Having discussed this with other snake keepers and breeders, I know of only one who got bitten and had a bad reaction, but subsequent tests proved he had an allergy to the saliva. Even then, he likened it to a bee sting. I have not heard of anyone else having been bitten.

Western hognoses are tiny, gentle, inquisitive snakes, beautifully marked and so easy to keep. Don't let that word "venomous" put you off - my Hoggy has one of the nicest temperaments I've ever come across in all my 25 years of experience. This is the only venomous snake I keep because I have no desire to win a bravery award by keeping a snake that could pose a threat to me, let alone anybody else!

Summary: A gentle, curious little snake with a winning disposition.