Snakes come in all shapes and sizes, and make for fascinating pets. From tiny corn snakes to giant pythons, they can live surprisingly long lives, but the exact lifespan differs from species to species.
If you’re thinking about getting a pet snake, you might be wondering how long can a snake live? This will depend on a whole host of factors, and in this article, we’ll take a closer look at this question and explain what you can do to help your snake thrive.
Read on for more information…
How long can a snake live?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to a snake’s lifespan. The lifespan of a snake will range from just a couple of years to more than 30 years, depending on its species and environment.
Some smaller species have shorter lifespans, while bigger snakes tend to live for longer – especially when kept as pets rather than living in the wild.
Here are some average lifespans for common snake species:
- Corn snakes – 10 to 15 years
- Ball python – 15 to 20 years
- Boa constrictor – 15 to 25 years
- King snake – 10 to 15 years
The oldest snake on record was a ball python that lived to be 42 years old at the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri.
How long do snakes live in the wild compared to captivity?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, snakes in the wild typically live shorter lives than those kept as pets. In their natural habitats, they face a wide range of threats from predators to food shortages. Even something as simple as bad weather can reduce a snake’s chance of survival in the wild. Many snakes in the wild die far quicker than they would compared to if they were in captivity.
Snakes that live in captivity have access to a regular supply of food, controlled temperatures, fresh water and medical care when they need it. They don’t need to evade predators or hunt for their food, meaning they can conserve their energy and stay healthier for longer.
In short, a safe environment, steady diet and regular care can sometimes even double a snake’s lifespan compared to its wild counterparts.
Factors impacting a snake’s lifespan
There is a wide range of factors that determine how long your snake will live. This includes:
- Species: Each species has its own natural lifespan. Larger snakes will typically live longer than smaller ones.
- Habitat: Temperature, humidity and lighting are all critical to a snake’s well being. Incorrect conditions can cause stress and illness, which can shorten the life of a snake.
- Diet: A healthy diet that matches a snake’s natural feeding habits will support its lifespan. Overfeeding or underfeeding a snake can cause a raft of health conditions.
- Whether they lay eggs: Female snakes that lay eggs often have a slightly shorter lifespan than others due to the physical strain of breeding.
- Health: Regular health checks and proper treatment for any illness or parasites can help stop serious health problems from impacting your snake’s lifespan.
Managing these things properly can help make sure your snake is happy and healthy for longer.
How to keep your snake healthy
A long life for a snake starts with good care. Here are some ways to keep your snake in the best condition:
Proper enclosure
Your snake’s habitat should mimic its natural environment as much as possible. This includes keeping the correct temperature, humidity levels and lighting.
Diet and water
Most snakes thrive on a diet of pre-killed rodents, but the exact food type and schedules should depend on the individual snake’s species. Make sure you offer prey that’s appropriately sized and avoid overfeeding. You should also offer a clean, fresh water supply.
Handle with care
Always handle your snake gently and avoid touching it when it’s eating or during a shedding period. Consistent but calm interaction can reduce stress and anxiety and build trust.
Health
If you have any concerns about your snake’s health, make sure you take it to a vet as catching potential health issues early is the best way to keep it in the best condition.
Signs your snake is unwell
Snakes are good at hiding their illnesses, but there are a few signs to look out for that indicate they may need to see a vet:
- Refusing to eat for long periods
- Acting lethargic
- Laboured breathing or wheezing
- Discharge from the mouth
- Shedding problems (like skin getting stuck)
- Weight loss or bloating
- Discolouration
If you notice any of these symptoms or are worried about your snake for any other reason, make sure you seek the support of a vet.
