Reptile · Venomous snake
Neotropical rattlesnake care guide
Crotalus durissus
The neotropical rattlesnake is a expert-level venomous snake from Mexico to Argentina. Adults reach 120–180 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Strongly neurotoxic venom; requires specific antivenom planning.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a neotropical rattlesnake cost in Canada?
Neotropical rattlesnake quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 120–180 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- Mexico to Argentina
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice and rats
- Bioactive style
- Semi-arid
Neotropical rattlesnake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-arid bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend10 cm
No drainage layer – water deeply but rarely so the bottom stays slightly moist while the surface stays dry.
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60%. 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 neotropical rattlesnake eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice and rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rodent every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Defensive; tools only.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
- Keep the humid hide damp; refresh water.
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
- Every 1–2 weeks, pour water down into the soil around plants and in the cool corner.
Monthly
- Check stones and wood are stable and can’t be tunnelled under.
- Add a few leaves to the cool corner for isopods.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer in the basking area.
- Replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a neotropical rattlesnake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 60 × 60 cm).
Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Canyon Sand
Optional: mix in for a firmer, sandier texture
Eastern Oak Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Terrarium Moss 7L Bag
Humid hide moss
Cork Bark Half Rounds
A hide at each end – plus one humid hide filled with damp moss
Mopani Wood
Climbing and a raised basking spot
Carnelian Stone
Holds heat under the lamp – place directly on the enclosure floor
Neotropical rattlesnake FAQ
Is the neotropical rattlesnake good for beginners?
No – the neotropical rattlesnake is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Defensive; tools only.
What size enclosure does a neotropical rattlesnake 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 neotropical rattlesnake cost in Canada?
Typically $500–1200 CAD to buy, about $1020–1830 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–600 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a neotropical rattlesnake need?
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a neotropical rattlesnake 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.