H. nasicus nasicus is most commonly referred to as the Plains Hognose Snake. They are usually found on the High Plains of Texas among the sparse vegetation that provides a sufficiently loose substrate to burrow in.
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Description
Adult Plains Hognose snakes will reach anywhere between 40-61cm (16-24 inches) in length. As with most Hognose snakes the Plains is a heavy-bodied snake with a stocky, strong neck and the signature turned-up blunt snout.
The unique ‘snout’ of the Hognose snake
Choosing your snake
Health checks for any snake:
- Firm rounded body.
- Clear eyes (may be a little cloudy if about to shed). There should be no sign of discharge.
- No evidence of mites – check especially around the head and eyes, check for faint specks on body and check your hands after handling the snake
- The snake should not have to open its mouth to breathe and should not appear as if it is gasping for breath.
- The inside of the mouth should be a uniform pink – reddened areas or cheesy looking matter may indicate mouth rot.
- Shiny smooth skin with no scabs or sores.
- Clean vent with no swelling in area
- Should move smoothly with no tremors
If you are unsure about the health of a snake, you can ask the vendor for a demonstration feeding, usually on pre-killed mice. If your new snake appears distressed or overly active, be patient but not ignorant, snakes will be agitated while they settle in to their new environments but if the problem persists it may be necessary to seek veterinary advice.