One of the most unique and exciting creatures in herpetology is the pink snake, which has attracted attention from both reptile lovers and casual observers. This thoughtful guide will dive into the world of pink snakes, their natural and selectively bred morphs, care instructions to best raise your pink reptilian friend, and some science behind all this amped-up coloring.
Natural Pink Snake Species
True pink snakes are rare in the wild, but several species do display pinkish hues:
Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata)
Rosy Boa: A rare natural pink snake. A small, nonvenomous snake native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, this kingsnake species is typically pinkish-brown in ground color with dark brown stripes along the length of its body.
1. Key characteristics:
- Length: 2-3 feet
- Lifespan: 20-30 years in captivity
- Disposition: Gentle and conducive to handling
Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
While not naturally pink, corn snakes have been selectively bred to produce various pink morphs: While not naturally pink, corn snakes have been selectively bred to produce various pink morphs:
Coral Pink Snow: This morph mixes the albino gene with anerythristic genes to make a snake that has a pink smooth belly and red eyes
- Strawberry: Has a pinkish-red base with even darker red saddle-like areas.
Ball Python (Python regius)
Ball pythons have also been bred to produce pink morphs: Ball pythons have also been bred to produce pink morphs:
Coral Glow: These species should be identified by the pinkish-orange base color with hardly recognizable patterns.
Pinkish Pastel: It has a light pink color with a slightly yellow tendency.
The Science of Pink Coloration in Snakes
The pink coloration in snakes is primarily due to two factors: The pink coloration in the snake is primarily due to two factors:
- Pigmentation: Aperture coloration can thus be promoted by the convenience of particular pigments, such as erythrophores or red pigment cells, seen in pink-colored animals.
- Structural coloration: As a result of the structure and organization of the scales and the underlying tissues light can be reflected in a way that imparts a pinkish hue.
Originally, this color is the result of selective breeding that intensifies these natural reactions in the animals but in many cases, pink snakes are bred deliberately.
Pink Snake Morphs in the Pet Trade
Blush-colored reptiles have become very common and due to this people have been able to breed different color morphs. Here’s a comparison of some popular pink snake morphs
| Species | Morph Name | Base Color | Pattern | Eye Color | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corn Snake | Coral Pink Snow | Soft pink | Faint pattern | Red | $150-$300 |
| Corn Snake | Strawberry | Pinkish-red | Red saddles | Black | $100-$200 |
| Ball Python | Coral Glow | Pinkish-orange | Subtle pattern | Dark | $400-$800 |
| Rosy Boa | Natural | Pinkish-brown | Longitudinal stripes | Dark | $100-$250 |
Care Requirements for Pink Snake
It is possible to note that blush-colored reptiles require almost as much care as any other snakes. However, some morphs may have specific needs:
- Habitat: The enclosure should be secure from the snake escaping or getting in contact with other animals or human beings depending on the size of the snake and its species and the total length it has. For the corn snake, it is advised that an adult snake be housed in a 20-30 gallon tank.
- Temperature: The temperature should be high in the hot zone, about 85-90°F, and low in the cold zone about 75-80 °F.
- Humidity: Maintain the humidity levels as far as they relate to the particular species. The common range for corn snakes: is 40-60%.
- Substrate: Aspen shavings, coconut husk, or any substrate that is recommended for use in the housing of reptiles.
- Diet: Offer food items that are of the correct size which in most cases include mice or rats depending on the size of the snake. For corn snakes, feed every 7-14 days
- Lighting: UVB lighting however is not mandatory but a good thing to have as it has other health benefits.
- Handling: Like most pink morphs, most corn snakes, after being acclimated to handling, are good to handle. The new snakes should NOT be handled for at least one week of their arrival in the destination.
Health Considerations for Pink Snakes
The pink snakes may be sensitive to light especially those with albino genes. This is a partial explanation of why some pink snakes are less healthy than other snakes. Offer enough places that the rodents can hide and ensure that they are not exposed to direct and bright light sources for long.
It is prudent to take your reptile to the vet for this once in a while or frequently depending on the severity of the issue. Watch for signs of:
- Respiratory issues
- Skin issues or changes in the pattern of how often a coat sheds
- Parasites
- Weight loss or gain
Breeding Pink Snakes
Rearing of pink snake therefore entails having good knowledge of genetics and how to rear snake. Key considerations include:
- The male should also possess the right genes that the female should pass on to the offspring to have pink coloration.
- In other words, proper programming of temperature cycling to be able to solicit the breeding behavior
- When incubation of eggs is done. It is also important that conditions that may affect proper incubation are kept at their best.
Conservation and Ethics
Although many pink snakes can be sold within the pet trade, it is always important to think about the effects of selective breeding for certain color morphs. One should only buy animals from standard breeders who ensure the health of their animals is more important than their appearance.
FAQs About Pink Snake
Yes, some species like the Rosy Boa have naturally pinkish coloration, but many pink snakes in the pet trade are selectively bred morphs.
Most pink snakes have care requirements similar to those of their non-pink counterparts. However, some morphs may be more sensitive to light or temperature.
Prices vary widely depending on the species and rarity of the morph. Some pink snakes are quite affordable, while others can be very expensive.
Some snakes may experience slight color changes as they mature, but dramatic changes are uncommon in most pink morphs.
The pink coloration is not indicative of venom. Most popular pink snakes in the pet trade, like corn snakes and ball pythons, are non-venomous.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, pink snakes are a fascinating subset of reptiles. They captivate both enthusiasts and collectors with their unique appearance. These rosy-hued creatures occur both naturally and through selective breeding. They continue to inspire wonder and spark curiosity about the diverse world of snakes. However, potential owners should exercise caution. It’s crucial to research the specific needs of any chosen species or morph. This ensures proper care and helps provide the best possible home for these beautiful reptiles.
