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Description
Prairie Rat Snake (het. Albino)
Scientific Name: Pantherophis emoryi
Common Name: Prairie Rat Snake, Emory’s Rat Snake
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 3.5–5 feet (1.0–1.5 m) in length, with a slender, strong body and smooth, glossy scales.
Appearance: The Prairie Rat Snake (het. Albino) retains the natural tones of the wild-type form—warm browns, greys, and subtle olive hues—while carrying the genetic potential to produce Albino offspring. Its pattern consists of dark-edged blotches on a lighter background, tapering into a pale belly with light checkering. Though visually identical to normal individuals, this morph carries one hidden copy of the Albino gene, making it a valuable breeder for producing vibrant yellow and orange Albino Prairie Rat Snakes.
Distribution: Native to the central and southern United States, ranging from Missouri and Kansas south into Texas and northern Mexico.
Habitat: Prairie Rat Snakes inhabit grasslands, open woodlands, rocky slopes, and agricultural areas throughout the central United States. In captivity, this morph thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.
Behaviour: Prairie Rat Snakes are calm, alert, and adaptable. They adjust well to handling and remain active yet gentle under consistent care, making them a reliable species for both display and breeding.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Adults should be housed in an enclosure of at least 40 gallons (36” × 18” × 18”) or larger. Provide multiple hides, climbing structures, and a naturalistic substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or a bioactive mix to maintain humidity.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 76–84°F (24–29°C) with a basking area near 88°F (31°C). Allow nighttime drops to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Keep humidity between 45–60%, offering a humid hide or moss pocket for shedding.
Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents every 7–10 days for juveniles and every 10–14 days for adults. They are consistent feeders and maintain good body condition under routine feeding.
Behaviour in Captivity: Prairie Rat Snakes are docile, curious, and responsive to handling. They thrive in structured environments and make excellent candidates for breeders interested in colour morph projects.
Special Considerations: Although visually normal, het. Albino individuals play an essential role in breeding programs. Pairing two carriers can result in Albino offspring, adding strong visual contrast and brightness to future generations.
Genetics Note
het. Albino (Recessive Carrier): Carries one copy of the Albino gene without expressing the visual morph. (“het” is short for heterozygous.) When bred with another Albino or het. Albino, there is a 25–50% chance of producing Albino offspring depending on the pairing.
Genetic Combination Summary
The Prairie Rat Snake (het. Albino) carries one recessive trait:
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het. Albino (Recessive Carrier): Holds one copy of the Albino gene, allowing Albino offspring when paired with another carrier or visual.
This morph is indistinguishable from the wild type in appearance but genetically significant for breeders seeking to produce bright, warm-toned Albino lines. Its hardy nature and genetic potential make it a cornerstone in multi-generational breeding programs.