Red Rat Snake

Red Rat Snakes (non-venomous) exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, including vibrant reds, oranges, browns, and blacks. This variability in coloration has led to the development of numerous morphs and color phases in captive-bred specimens, making them popular among reptile enthusiasts.

Naturally colored red rat snakes possess a patterned coloration that aids in camouflage, allowing them to blend into their surroundings and avoid detection by predators. They are primarily nocturnal which makes them fairly elusive in the wild.

Like all snakes, they periodically shed their scales as they grow. This process, known as ecdysis, allows them to remove old, worn-out scales and replace them with new ones. Younger snakes shed more frequently than adults because they are growing rapidly.

This red rat snake (left enclosure) is an albino morph. Albino or amelanistic animals lack pigment and are usually white with pink eyes. In this snake’s case, they are orange and white with pink eyes. This snake is retired from a petting zoo.

This is a wild caught red rat snake (center enclosure) that was found severely tangled up in a soccer net  leaving it badly scarred on its back.

The red rat snake (right enclosure) on exhibit is a morph that was specifically developed for the pet trade. She was turned over to us as an unwanted pet. If you are interested in getting a pet snake, it is extremely important to learn about the needs of the snake beforehand. Red rat snakes can live for over 20 years in captivity. In order to ensure the health and longevity of the snake, they require a clean habitat, balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups.