Reptile · Colubrid
Western shovelnose snake care guide
Chionactis occipitalis
The western shovelnose snake is a advanced-level colubrid from Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. Adults reach 25–40 cm and live 5–10 years in captivity. Sand-swimmer; needs fine sand at least 10 cm deep. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 20–30%
How much does a western shovelnose snake cost in Canada?
Western shovelnose snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 25–40 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–10 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Mojave and Sonoran Deserts
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 20–30%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, roaches, scorpions
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Western shovelnose snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix10 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a western shovelnose snake eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, scorpions. Offer several small insects every 3–4 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Tiny and fast; best for observation.
Health watch: Watch for dehydration and feeding refusal.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a western shovelnose snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).
Western shovelnose snake FAQ
Is the western shovelnose snake good for beginners?
The western shovelnose snake is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Tiny and fast; best for observation.
What size enclosure does a western shovelnose snake need?
At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a western shovelnose snake cost in Canada?
Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $380–720 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $120–200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a western shovelnose snake need?
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%.
What does a western shovelnose snake eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, scorpions. Offer several small insects every 3–4 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.