Reptile · Colubrid
Black racer care guide
Coluber constrictor
The black racer is a advanced-level colubrid from North America incl. S BC and S Saskatchewan. Adults reach 90–150 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Rarely tames; use visual barriers and a large enclosure. Solitary.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 29–32°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a black racer cost in Canada?
Black racer quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 90–150 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- North America incl. S BC and S Saskatchewan
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 29–32°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – mice, lizards, frogs, insects
- Bioactive style
- Temperate forest
Black racer enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a temperate forest bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
Keep a moisture gradient: drier on top and at the warm end, slightly moist underneath and at the cool end.
Temperature: Warm 29–32°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a black racer eat?
Carnivore – mice, lizards, frogs, insects. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 5–7 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast, nervous and bites readily; not a handling snake.
Health watch: Watch for stress and nose rubbing on enclosure walls.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperatures and refresh water.
Weekly
- Lightly moisten the cool end and lower soil.
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check hides and branches are stable.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a black racer bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 60 × 60 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Coco Husk Chips - Dried Loose Pack
Optional top layer (coco husk chips)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Cork Bark Flats
A hide in each temperature zone
Cork Branches
Many colubrids climb more than people expect
Black racer FAQ
Is the black racer good for beginners?
The black racer is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Fast, nervous and bites readily; not a handling snake.
What size enclosure does a black racer need?
At least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (about 59 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 143 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a black racer cost in Canada?
Typically $100–250 CAD to buy, about $1010–1820 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–350 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a black racer need?
Temperature: Warm 29–32°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a black racer eat?
Carnivore – mice, lizards, frogs, insects. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 5–7 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.