Russian Rat Snake (Elaphe schrenckii) Care Sheet

Quick Facts

Behavior

• Generally calm and easy to handle; may become defensive if startled.

• Terrestrial but can climb if enclosure allows.

• Diurnal; most active during the day and early evening.

• Excellent beginner-friendly snake with mild temperament.

Enclosure Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters for an adult; secure lid required

• Substrate: Aspen shavings, coconut fiber, or reptile-safe soil; allows burrowing

• Decor: Hides, branches, rocks, and logs

• Humidity: 5060%

• Temperature:

  • Basking / warm hide: 2830C

  • Ambient: 2226C

  • Night: 1822C

• Lighting: Indirect or low light; UVB optional but not required

• Ventilation: Moderate airflow

Compatibility

• Best housed singly; generally non-aggressive.

• Avoid cohabiting with other snakes or predatory species.

Diet

• Carnivorous; feeds on appropriately sized rodents:

  • Frozen-thawed or pre-killed mice or rats depending on size

• Juveniles: feed every 57 days

• Adults: feed every 1014 days

• Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking

Care Tips

• Maintain stable temperature and humidity for digestion and health.

• Spot-clean regularly; remove feces and shed.

• Provide multiple hides to reduce stress.

• Handle gently and regularly to maintain docility.

• Monitor for signs of illness or refusal to eat.

Breeding

• Oviparous; females lay 820 eggs per clutch.

• Eggs incubate for 5060 days at 2830C.

• Hatchlings are independent and require appropriately sized prey.

Visual Quick Guide

• Enclosure: 120 L, hides, climbing structures, burrowable substrate

• Temp: Basking 2830C / Ambient 2226C / Night 1822C

• Humidity: 5060%

• Diet: Carnivorous (appropriately sized rodents)

• Activity: Diurnal / crepuscular, terrestrial

• Stress: Provide hides and stable environment; handle gently

Please note: We don’t ship live animals. You can order online and choose click and collect, and we will hold it for you.