Have you ever considered having a non-venomous, curious, and visually striking snake as a pet? The Trinket Snake (Coelognathus Helena) might be the perfect match for you!
Known for its unique patterns and manageable size, this snake has become a favorite among reptile enthusiasts. But what makes this species so special?
Why is it such a great pet choice for beginners and experienced keepers alike? Let’s discover everything about this snake.
Trinket Snake History
The Common Trinket Snake has a long history in Asia, where it is often found in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
They thrive in forests, grasslands, and even farm fields, proving just how adaptable it is.
Over the years, these snakes have coexisted peacefully with humans, earning a reputation as harmless and friendly creatures.
This species is known for its active and alert behaviour, often hunting small mammals and birds in the wild. Due to their calm nature and unique appearance, they have gained popularity in the pet trade, making their way into homes across the globe.
Taxonomy and Genetics
These Snakes belong to the Colubridae family, which is one of the largest snake families and includes many non-venomous species.
Within this family, the Coelognathus genus contains a few related species, but Coelognathus Helena is unique for its calm temperament and beautiful colouration.
Even though Trinket Snakes aren’t related to venomous snakes, they are quick and agile like some of them.
Luckily, they catch their prey by squeezing it rather than using venom, so they’re interesting to watch and safe to handle.
Trinket Snake Characteristics
Trinket Snake Appearance
Body Color: Their bodies are typically olive-green to brown with bold black or dark brown markings that create a striking pattern.
Some individuals may also have yellowish or cream-coloured stripes running along their bodies. These snakes are long and slim, built for speed and agility.
Scales: Their scales are smooth, giving them a shiny appearance, especially after shedding.
Trinket snake Eye Color: They have large, round eyes that are usually dark brown or black, giving them a wide-eyed, curious look.
Tail: Their tail is long and thin, helping the snake with balance as it moves quickly through its environment.
Head Shape: Their head is slightly wider than the neck, with a pointed snout that helps them hunt for small prey.
Speed: Known for being quick and agile, they can move swiftly when hunting or exploring.
Trinket Snake Size & Weight
Adults usually grow to about 3-5 feet (90-150 cm) in length and can weigh 300-500 grams.
Temperature & Behaviour
In the wild, they thrive in temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). They are generally shy but can become friendly and calm once accustomed to handling.
They are active snakes that enjoy exploring their surroundings and hiding in small spaces. They may become defensive when startled but rarely bite.
Trinket Snake Lifespan
With proper care, they can live up to 15 years or more in captivity. Their longevity depends on the quality of care they receive, including diet, enclosure, and overall health.
Trinket Snake Cost
Their cost can vary based on their age, size, and condition. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
Trinket Snake Breeding & Reproduction
They breed during the warmer months. In the wild, this usually happens in spring and summer when temperatures are just right.
During mating, males will often perform a courtship display, which includes flicking their tongues and rubbing against the female. This helps them get ready for the mating process.
Eggs and Incubation
After mating, the female lays eggs in a hidden spot, like a burrow or a pile of leaves. She will sometimes coil around them to keep them warm.
In captivity, breeders often use incubators to control the temperature and humidity of the eggs. The eggs usually hatch after about 60 to 70 days.
Baby Trinket Snakes are small but fully formed, and they start hunting for small prey soon after hatching.
Trinket Snake Subspecies
They have two recognized subspecies:
- Coelognathus helena helena: They are also known as the common trinket snake and are commonly found in India and Nepal. It is the most well-known variety of trinkets.
- Coelognathus helena monticollaris: Found mainly in Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Northeastern India, this subspecies tends to be slightly different in colouration and pattern compared to the nominate species.
Both subspecies share similar habits and traits but vary slightly in appearance and geographic distribution.
Famous Morph Combinations
They are widely recognized morphs like some other snake species, and they are known for their attractive colour patterns. Here are some popular variations:
Trinket Snake Care Sheet
Enclosure Requirements
A tank that is 3-4 feet long is ideal for adults. Hatchlings can be kept in smaller enclosures, but they will eventually need a larger space as they grow.
Material: Glass or plastic enclosures work well, as they are easy to clean and maintain.
Substrate: Use aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or paper towels. The substrate should hold moisture but remain dry on the surface.
Temperature & Heating
Provide a basking area with temperatures between 85-90°F (29-32°C). The rest of the enclosure should remain around 75-80°F (24-27°C).
Nighttime Temps: Temperatures can drop to 70-75°F (21-24°C) at night. Use heat lamps or under-tank heaters, and always monitor the temperatures with a thermostat.
Humidity & Lighting
Maintain humidity levels between 40-60%. You can achieve this by misting the enclosure lightly a few times a week or providing a water dish large enough for soaking.
They do not require UVB lighting but benefit from a regular day/night cycle. Provide 10-12 hours of light during the day using standard lighting.
Trinket Snake Diet
Feed your Snake a diet of appropriately sized rodents, such as mice or small rats.
Feeding Frequency:
Always provide frozen-thawed prey to avoid the risk of injury from live prey.
Handling & Shedding
These Snakes are generally docile once they get used to being handled. Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase the time as the snake becomes more comfortable.
Avoid handling right after feeding to prevent regurgitation. Shedding occurs every 4-6 weeks in younger snakes and less frequently in adults.
If your snake has trouble shedding, provide a humidity box or soak it in warm water to assist with the process.
Health & Common Issues
Conclusion
The Trinket Snake is a wonderful pet for anyone looking for a non-venomous, easy-to-care-for reptile. With its unique appearance, calm nature, and simple care requirements, it’s an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced snake keepers. Just make sure to provide the right environment, diet, and handling, and this beautiful snake will thrive in your care for many years!
