Reptile · Colubrid
Sunbeam snake care guide
Xenopeltis unicolor
The sunbeam snake is a intermediate-level colubrid from Southeast Asia. Adults reach 90–130 cm and live 10–20 years in captivity. Burrows a lot in a moist, deep substrate.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp 26–30°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a sunbeam snake cost in Canada?
Sunbeam snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 90–130 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 26–30°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Sunbeam snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 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: 26–30°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a sunbeam snake eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 7–10 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Nervous and slippery; prefers to stay buried.
Health watch: Watch for dehydration, skin infections and stress from wild-caught imports.
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 sunbeam snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 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
Sunbeam snake FAQ
Is the sunbeam snake good for beginners?
The sunbeam snake is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Nervous and slippery; prefers to stay buried.
What size enclosure does a sunbeam snake need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a sunbeam snake cost in Canada?
Typically $80–200 CAD to buy, about $620–1080 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a sunbeam snake need?
Temperature: 26–30°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a sunbeam snake eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 7–10 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.