Reptile · Rat snake
Cave dwelling rat snake care guide
Orthriophis taeniurus ridleyi
The cave dwelling rat snake is a intermediate-level rat snake from Malaysia, S Thailand. Adults reach 180–240 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Also called the blue beauty; keep humid and shaded. Solitary.
- Enclosure 180 × 60 × 90 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 23–25°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a cave dwelling rat snake cost in Canada?
Cave dwelling rat snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 180–240 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- Malaysia, S Thailand
- Minimum enclosure
- 180 × 60 × 90 cm (71 × 24 × 35 in, ≈ 257 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 23–25°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice and rats
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Cave dwelling rat snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 180 × 60 × 90 cm (71 × 24 × 35 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 23–25°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a cave dwelling rat snake eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice and rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rodent every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Usually calmer than other beauty snakes.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections and dehydration.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a cave dwelling rat snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (180 × 60 × 90 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Cave dwelling rat snake FAQ
Is the cave dwelling rat snake good for beginners?
The cave dwelling rat snake is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Usually calmer than other beauty snakes.
What size enclosure does a cave dwelling rat snake need?
At least 180 × 60 × 90 cm (about 71 × 24 × 35 inches, roughly 257 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a cave dwelling rat snake cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $1550–2750 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–400 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a cave dwelling rat snake need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 23–25°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a cave dwelling rat snake eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice and rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rodent every 10–14 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.