Coastal Plains Milk Snake Care Sheet

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis triangulum temporalis
Common Name: Coastal Plains Milk Snake
Origin: Native to the southeastern United States, found in regions along the Atlantic coastal plains from North Carolina to northern Florida.
Adult Size: Typically 2.5-3.5 feet in length
Lifespan: 12-20 years in captivity with proper care

Basic Information:

Coastal Plains Milk Snakes are a beautiful subspecies of milk snake, known for their smaller size and subtle, yet striking red, black, and yellow/orange bands. They are found primarily in the sandy, forested regions of the coastal plains, often hiding under logs, leaf litter, and in other moist, sheltered areas. Due to their smaller size and relatively calm nature, Coastal Plains Milk Snakes are a great option for beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike.

Enclosure Requirements:

Enclosure Size:

  • Juveniles: A 10-20 gallon tank or a plastic tub around 16-24 inches in length is sufficient for hatchlings and juveniles.

  • Adults: Adult Coastal Plains Milk Snakes do well in a 20-30 gallon tank or a plastic tub approximately 30 inches in length.

Type of Enclosure:

  • Either a glass tank or plastic tub is suitable, provided there is proper ventilation.

  • Heat Source: Use an under-tank heater (UTH) on one side of the enclosure to create a temperature gradient, allowing the snake to thermoregulate. Avoid heat lamps, as milk snakes prefer belly heat for digestion.

Hiding Spots:

  • Provide two hide boxes, one on the warm side and one on the cool side, to help the snake feel secure while thermoregulating.

Water Dish:

  • A shallow water dish should be available at all times with clean, fresh water. Regularly replace the water to avoid contamination.

Bedding:

  • Recommended Bedding: Aspen bedding is ideal, as it allows for burrowing and is easy to clean. Avoid pine or cedar bedding, as the oils can be harmful to reptiles.

Temperature & Humidity:

Temperature Gradient:

  • Warm Side: 85-88°F

  • Cool Side: 75-80°F

  • Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 70-75°F without issue.

Humidity:

  • Coastal Plains Milk Snakes do not require high humidity. Ambient humidity in most homes (40-60%) is usually sufficient. During shedding, you can lightly mist the enclosure or provide a humid hide to aid the snake.

Feeding:

  • Diet: Coastal Plains Milk Snakes primarily feed on mice.

  • Preferred Feeding: Frozen-thawed mice are highly recommended for safety and convenience.

  • Feeding Frequency:

    • Hatchlings: Feed every 5-7 days

    • Adults: Feed every 7-10 days

  • Live Prey: If the snake refuses frozen-thawed mice, live prey can be offered. Always supervise the feeding to ensure the prey does not harm the snake. Remove uneaten prey immediately.

Health & Common Issues:

  • Shedding Problems (Dysecdysis): Insufficient humidity can lead to incomplete sheds. Ensure the snake has access to water and provide a humid hide if needed.

  • Mouth Rot (Stomatitis): Mouth infections can result from live prey injuries or dirty enclosures. Watch for swelling, pus, or difficulty eating.

  • Respiratory Infections: Improper temperatures or excessive humidity can lead to respiratory issues. Symptoms include wheezing or mucus discharge. Maintain a proper temperature gradient to prevent these issues.

Temperament & Handling:

  • Juveniles: Like many milk snakes, juvenile Coastal Plains Milk Snakes can be a bit nervous and flighty, but they tend to calm down with regular, gentle handling.

  • Handling Tips:

    • Avoid handling your snake on the day of feeding or for 1-2 days afterward to allow for proper digestion.

    • Always approach slowly and handle the snake gently to reduce stress.

    • Begin with short handling sessions, gradually increasing the duration as the snake becomes more accustomed to being handled.

With proper care and handling, your Coastal Plains Milk Snake will thrive and make an excellent, long-lived pet!