Reptile · Venomous snake
Cottonmouth care guide
Agkistrodon piscivorus
The cottonmouth is a expert-level venomous snake from SE United States. Adults reach 75–120 cm and live 15–25 years in captivity. Semi-aquatic; needs a secure water area that can be serviced without reaching in.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 28–30°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a cottonmouth cost in Canada?
Cottonmouth quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 75–120 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–25 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- SE United States
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–30°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – fish, frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Cottonmouth enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a cottonmouth eat?
Carnivore – fish, frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed prey item every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Bluffs with gaping but strikes if pressed; tools only.
Health watch: Watch for blister disease and obesity.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a cottonmouth bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Cottonmouth FAQ
Is the cottonmouth good for beginners?
No – the cottonmouth is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Bluffs with gaping but strikes if pressed; tools only.
What size enclosure does a cottonmouth need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a cottonmouth cost in Canada?
Typically $200–500 CAD to buy, about $850–1550 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–500 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a cottonmouth need?
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a cottonmouth eat?
Carnivore – fish, frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed prey item 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.