Reptile · Colubrid
False water cobra care guide
Hydrodynastes gigas
The false water cobra is a advanced-level colubrid from Central South America. Adults reach 180–300 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Spreads its neck like a cobra; very food-driven, so feed with long tongs. Solitary.
- Enclosure 240 × 90 × 90 cm
- Temp Warm 29–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a false water cobra cost in Canada?
False water cobra quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 180–300 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Central South America
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 90 × 90 cm (94 × 35 × 35 in, ≈ 514 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 29–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – rodents, fish
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
False water cobra enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 90 × 90 cm (94 × 35 × 35 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 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 29–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a false water cobra eat?
Carnivore – rodents, fish. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rodent every 5–7 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Intelligent and active; rear-fanged bites cause pain and swelling.
Health watch: Watch for obesity and bite incidents during feeding.
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 false water cobra bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 90 × 90 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 12 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
False water cobra FAQ
Is the false water cobra good for beginners?
The false water cobra is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Intelligent and active; rear-fanged bites cause pain and swelling.
What size enclosure does a false water cobra need?
At least 240 × 90 × 90 cm (about 94 × 35 × 35 inches, roughly 514 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a false water cobra cost in Canada?
Typically $400–900 CAD to buy, about $2850–4930 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $400–700 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a false water cobra need?
Temperature: Warm 29–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a false water cobra eat?
Carnivore – rodents, fish. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rodent 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.