1. Rosy Boa
Rosy boas are known for their gentle nature and beautiful color variations. They grow to just 2-3 feet long, making them an ideal choice for small spaces. Their non-venomous and docile temperament makes them perfect for beginners.
- Length: 17-34 inches
- Weight: Around 1lb
- Lifespan: Up to 25 years
- Cost: $30-40 for hatchlings
2. Ball Python
One of the most popular pet snakes, the ball python is beloved for its even temperament and numerous color morphs. They are shy but friendly, and their maximum size is about 5 feet.
- Length: 2-5 feet
- Weight: 3.3 lbs
- Lifespan: 30 years
- Cost: Varies depending on morph, generally affordable
3. Ringneck Snake
These tiny snakes are often mistaken for worms due to their small size. With their distinctive orange neck ring, they are a unique addition to any reptile collection.
- Length: 10-15 inches
- Weight: 1-1.5g
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Cost: $10-20
4. Western Hognose Snake
With their adorable upturned noses, western hognose snakes are great for beginners. While they resemble rattlesnakes, they are non-venomous and have a mild temperament.
- Length: 2-3 feet
- Weight: 800g
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Cost: $50-100
5. Corn Snake
A favorite among beginners, corn snakes are easy to care for and come in a variety of colors. They may grow longer than others on this list but are still manageable in size.
- Length: 2-6 feet
- Weight: 900g
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- Cost: $30-60
6. Scarlet Kingsnake
Known for their vibrant color patterns, scarlet kingsnakes are small, non-venomous, and relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for first-time snake owners.
- Length: 16-20 inches
- Weight: 50-70g
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Cost: $50-100
7. California Kingsnake
This species is another small, non-venomous snake with various color morphs. The California kingsnake is very popular as a pet due to its gentle disposition.
- Length: 30-40 inches
- Weight: 600-800g
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Cost: $40-80
8. Milk Snake
Milk snakes resemble coral snakes but are harmless and easy to care for. They are relatively small and make a beautiful addition to any snake collection.
- Length: 36 inches
- Weight: 1-3 lbs
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Cost: $40-90
9. Garter Snake
These snakes are often found in North America and are popular among beginners due to their docile nature and manageable size.
- Length: 18-54 inches
- Weight: 150-200g
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
- Cost: $20-40
10. Gopher Snake
While slightly longer than other small species, gopher snakes are friendly, easygoing, and generally affordable.
- Length: 4-5 feet
- Weight: 2-4 lbs
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Cost: $50
11. Sand Boa
This compact boa is perfect for first-time owners, as they are docile and require minimal care.
- Length: 16-24 inches
- Weight: 150g-2.2lbs
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Cost: $50-150
12. Barbados Threadsnake
This is the tiniest snake in the world, measuring only around 4 inches. While they are cute, they aren’t commonly kept as pets due to their minuscule size.
- Length: 4 inches
- Weight: 0.6g
- Lifespan: Unknown
- Cost: Rarely sold as pets
13. Bimini Blind Snake
Native to Africa, this tiny snake resembles an earthworm but is non-venomous and harmless.
- Length: 5-6 inches
- Weight: 1g
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Cost: $10-20
14. Smooth Green Snake
A slender and beautiful snake, the smooth green snake is known for its calm temperament, but it can be a bit fussy when it comes to food.
- Length: 20-26 inches
- Weight: 1-30g
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Cost: $20-40
15. Rough Green Snake
Like its smooth cousin, the rough green snake is slender but slightly longer, reaching up to 46 inches.
- Length: 35-46 inches
- Weight: 16-26g
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Cost: $30-50
16. Anthill Python
This tiny python from Australia is compact and heavy for its size, making it a unique pet.
- Length: 20 inches
- Weight: 200g
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Cost: $200-300
17. Children’s Python
Not as common, but still a good option for beginners, the Children’s python is small and relatively easy to care for.
- Length: 3-5 feet
- Weight: 300g
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Cost: $100-150
18. African Egg-Eating Snake
Unique in its diet, the African egg-eating snake feeds exclusively on eggs, using spurs along its spine to break them open.
- Length: 1.5-2.5 feet
- Weight: 300g
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Cost: $100-200
19. Ribbon Snake
Known for its slender body and striking patterns, the ribbon snake is small and light, making it a great choice for new snake owners.
- Length: 16-35 inches
- Weight: 100g
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Cost: $20-40
20. Worm Snake
These small, burrowing snakes are not the most popular but can still make great pets for those who are looking for a more low-maintenance option.
- Length: 10-13 inches
- Weight: 5g
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Cost: $10-20
Snakes to Avoid for Beginners
While small snakes are great for beginners, it’s best to avoid certain species like large constrictors or venomous snakes. Some species, like water snakes, tree boas, and Burmese pythons, are best suited for more experienced snake owners.
What Do Small Snakes Eat?
Small snakes typically eat rodents, fish, worms, or crickets. Most snakes thrive on a diet of frozen prey, though live feeding is sometimes an option for certain species. Always ensure that the prey you feed is appropriately sized for your snake.
Conclusion
Snakes can make fantastic pets for the right owner. With the right care, these tiny snake species can be wonderful companions for both first-time reptile keepers and experienced enthusiasts alike. From the beautiful ball python to the quirky ringneck snake, there’s a small snake out there for everyone!
