What Size Tank Does a Hognose Snake Need?
Written by a Reptile Keeper with Firsthand Experience Raising Hognose Snakes
If you’re considering a western hognose snake as your next pet, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: What size tank do they need? While hognose snakes are small and hardy, they still require proper space, heating, and lighting to thrive—especially if you’re planning a display-style setup rather than using a rack system. In this guide, we’ll walk you through space requirements, habitat design tips, and how to match the right enclosure to your snake’s size and age.
Step 1: Know Your Species and Growth Stage
Most people keep Western Hognose Snakes (Heterodon nasicus), which typically grow to around 14–24 inches (35–60 cm), with females being slightly larger. Although some rare morphs or hybrids can exceed this range, the vast majority fall well within this size.
Here’s a general recommendation for display-style enclosures:
|
Age Group |
Size (Inches) |
Recommended Tank Size |
|
Hatchling |
5–8 inches |
10–15 gallons (20″ x 10″) |
|
Juvenile |
8–14 inches |
20 gallons long (30″ x 12″) |
|
Adult |
14–24 inches |
30–40 gallons (36″ x 18″ or larger) |
Pro Tip: Hognose snakes are fossorial, meaning they love to burrow. Floor space and substrate depth are more important than vertical height.
Step 2: Rack vs. Tank — Which Setup is Right for You?
In the reptile community, many breeders and experienced keepers prefer using rack systems for hognose snakes. These are space-efficient and easier for maintaining humidity and feeding routines.
However, for hobbyists who enjoy observing their pets, a display tank is ideal. It allows for more customization, naturalistic decoration, and visibility. If you’re choosing a display enclosure, be sure to:
Prioritize horizontal space
Provide at least 3–4 inches of loose, safe substrate
Maintain stable heating and lighting
Step 3: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Starting too small or underestimating growth
Some new owners start with tiny enclosures and assume they’ll upgrade later—but snakes grow quickly, and upgrading too late can cause stress or even feeding problems.
Neglecting ventilation or burrowing depth
Hognoses are active diggers. Without proper ventilation and deep substrate, you risk humidity issues or stress behaviors.
Using mismatched DIY equipment
Glass tanks with clamp lamps and mismatched heating pads often result in unstable temperature gradients. Some setups even risk UVC exposure or unreliable temperature readings.
✅ Ekulla Tip: Omni Tank
Ekulla CP1 and CP1 Plus models are suitable for hatchling to juvenile hognose snakes. For adult specimens, the CP1 Max offers increased ground space and ventilation, and the upcoming CP2 model will be perfect for larger, long-term setups.
Step 4: What Features Should a Good Hognose Snake Tank Include?
Whether you go with a glass tank, PVC enclosure, or Ekulla’s Omni Tank, here are essential features:
Proper heat gradient: 90–95°F (basking side) and 75–80°F (cool side)
Cross ventilation: Reduces respiratory issues and keeps air fresh·
Enrichment: Branches, hides, and clutter for security and stimulatioSubstrate depth: 3–5 inches of aspen or coconut fiber for burrowing
Secure lid or lock: Hognoses are strong enough to push loose lids
Why I Recommend the Ekulla Omni Tank
As someone who transitioned from rack systems to display tanks, I was constantly frustrated by lighting setups, misting inconsistencies, and poor viewing angles. After switching to the Ekulla Omni Tank, my snakes have been healthier—and I’ve enjoyed the experience more, too.
What makes Omni Tank special?
·Scratch & Drop Proof SP-Board for long-term durability
4-zone LED lighting and preset habitat modes
5 intelligent species settings, including snake and insect modes
·Modern, minimal design that complements your home
Whether you’re raising a hatchling or designing a stunning adult enclosure, the Omni Tank adapts to your snake’s needs—while making your life easier.
FAQ
Q: Can I keep a baby hognose snake in a large tank?
A: Technically yes, but large, sparse tanks may confuse hatchlings during feeding. A smaller, secure space is better for young snakes.
Q: Do hognose snakes need UVB light?
A: Not required, but low-level UVB can benefit overall health and activity if the tank is a display-style setup.
Q: Can I use a tall tank for a hognose snake?
A: It’s not recommended. They don’t climb much—use a long and shallow enclosure with more floor space.
Final Thoughts
Tank size matters—but it’s more than just numbers. Creating the right environment for a hognose snake means understanding their natural behaviors, choosing safe materials, and building a setup you can maintain comfortably.
Ekulla’s Omni Tank helps make that possible—offering a ready-to-go enclosure that evolves with your pet.