Milk snakes make ideal reptile pets because of their small size. Their bright colors, gentle temperament, and harmless behavior make them good pets. However, for many, their sizes may seem too small. Well, their sizes can vary depending on various aspects.
How big do milk snakes get? Milk snakes can be 16 to 28 inches long only. The females get slightly longer than the males. Their short size is accompanied by a slender and light body. They can easily fit your palm when coiled up. These masters of disguises are fun to have around. Thankfully, they are not poisonous.
There are a few things you may need to know about their sizes. This article provides you with all the necessary information. Take your seat and have a good read!
Factors Affecting Milk Snake Size
Various factors play a role in determining the size of the reptile. Being aware of these will help you find the right milk snake for you.
1. Subspecies of the Snake
Milk snakes make good pets, but they are not created equal. There are over 24 recognized subspecies of milk snakes. Each of them has a distinct size range. The eastern milksnake, for example, is smaller in size compared to the California Kingsnake.
Knowing the specific subspecies of your milk snake, therefore, is important while purchasing them. You can have a general idea of how long it may get once the reptile grows up.
2. Sex of Your Pet
Sex plays a vital role in determining the size of the snake. This is called sexual dimorphism, where one sex is noticeably larger than the other. This is present in many milk snake subspecies.
Females are generally larger than males. The differences become more pronounced as they reach adulthood. The larger size of the female may be because of their need for more space to store developing eggs.
3. Genetics
Genetics plays a significant role in determining a milk snake’s overall size. Selective breeding in captivity can influence size. Breeders often focus on specific traits like larger size for certain morphs. However, these practices should not compromise the snake’s health or natural proportions.
4. Diet and Nutrition
Just like with humans, proper diet and nutrition impact a milk snake’s growth. A healthy diet consisting of appropriately sized prey items ensures they receive the necessary nutrients. Note that milk snakes do not drink milk.
Nonetheless, overfeeding should be avoided. Feeding more than needed can lead to obesity and potential health problems. Don’t do this to enhance their sizes. Providing a balanced diet is crucial for a healthy and appropriately sized milk snake.
Average Size of Common Milk Snake Subspecies
Here is a list of common subspecies of milk snake subspecies and their sizes.
| Subspecies | Average Length (in) | Average Length (cm) | Average Weight (g) |
| Eastern Milksnake | 24-36 | 61-91 | 38-225 |
| Scarlet Kingsnake | 14-20 | 36-51 | 20-80 |
| California Kingsnake | 36-48 | 91-122 | 80-325 |
| Texas Milk Snake | 16-31 | 41-79 | 20-120 |
| Mexican Milk Snake | 24-30 | 61-76 | 50-150 |
| Honduran Milk Snake | 28-36 | 71-91 | 80-225 |
| Nelson’s Milksnake | 20-28 | 51-71 | 38-120 |
| Florida Milksnake | 20-32 | 51-81 | 38-150 |
| Margined Milk Snake | 30-36 | 72-91 | 80-225 |
| Sinaloan Milk Snake | 24-32 | 61-81 | 50-150 |
Growth Rate and Lifespan of Milk Snakes
Don’t get fooled by their small sizes. They are fast growers and reach adulthood within 3-4 years of hatching. During this period, they’ll experience steady growth spurts. The growth happens fast during the first two years.
However, the growth rate can be influenced by factors like genetics, diet, and overall health. A well-fed snake with good genes will likely reach its full size faster than one with an inadequate diet or underlying health issues.
The lifespan of milk snakes is quite impressive if you compare it to other small animals. They can live for up to 22 years! This extended lifespan highlights the importance of providing these fascinating reptiles with a clean environment.
Captive Care Considerations for Milk Snake Size
To help their proper growth, provide milk snakes with enough care. Knowing about milk snake care for that is crcucial. Here are some instructions for you:
- Choose an enclosure length that’s at least the adult snake’s total body length. Larger subspecies, like the California Kingsnake, will require a larger enclosure.
- Snakes feel secure in appropriately sized hides that accommodate their entire body.
- Ensure one end of the enclosure is warm enough for thermoregulation.
- Provide a clean water dish large enough for the snake to soak in comfortably.
FAQ
Some additional information might come in handy for you while caring for milk snakes and their size.
What is the biggest milk snake ever?
The title of biggest milk snake goes to the Black Milk Snake. They can reach up to a staggering length of 7 feet. It is quite impressive compared to the regular 16 to 28-inch sizes of milk snakes.
Can you touch a milk snake?
Yes, milk snakes are docile and can be handled with proper care. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after to avoid stressing the snake. Be careful about their biting and musking. They are not poisonous or venomous, though.
Do milk snakes musk?
Yes, milk snakes can musk! It’s a smelly defense mechanism they use to deter predators. The musk has a strong, unpleasant odor. Thankfully, milk snake musk is not harmful to humans.
Conclusion
Milk snakes may not get much bigger, but they are still good pets to have. Some may prefer the snake because of its small size. They are small, cute, and easy to handle. Take notes of important points and follow them to get the right size reptile friend.