Honduran Milksnake (Pearl)

Honduran Milksnake (Pearl)

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis triangulum hondurensis
Common Name: Honduran Milksnake

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) in length, with a thick, muscular build and smooth, glossy scales.

Appearance: The Pearl Honduran Milksnake is one of the most visually striking pale morphs of the species, known for its soft, silvery-white colouration and faintly visible banding. Formed by combining the Albino and Anerythristic genes, the Pearl morph removes both red and black pigment, leaving an elegant, pearlescent sheen across the body. Some individuals display faint silver or cream-toned bands, while others appear nearly patternless, glowing white under natural light. The eyes are pink to soft rose-red, and the scales reflect a subtle iridescence that gives this morph its name. The Pearl is prized for its delicate coloration and refined, almost luminous beauty—an exceptional example of colour balance through recessive combination breeding.

Distribution: Originates from selective captive breeding of the Honduran Milksnake, a subspecies native to Honduras, Nicaragua, and northern Costa Rica.

Habitat: Honduran Milksnakes inhabit tropical forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas across Central America. In captivity, this morph thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.

Behaviour: Calm, confident, and highly manageable, Pearl Honduran Milksnakes are excellent display animals. They are strong feeders and adapt easily to captivity, making them suitable for intermediate and advanced keepers alike.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide an enclosure at least 4 feet × 2 feet × 2 feet for adults. Include multiple hides, climbing décor, and smooth furnishings. A naturalistic substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or aspen allows burrowing and helps regulate humidity.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area around 90°F (32°C). Allow nighttime drops to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Maintain humidity between 50–70%, with a humid hide provided during shedding.

Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents every 7–10 days for juveniles and every 10–14 days for adults. Honduran Milksnakes are enthusiastic, dependable feeders that thrive on a consistent diet.

Behaviour in Captivity: These snakes are docile and curious, responding well to regular handling. Their serene appearance and calm temperament make them an excellent choice for both display and breeding programs.

Special Considerations: Milksnakes should always be housed individually, as they may consume other snakes. The Pearl’s pale coloration can make it more sensitive to bright lighting, so moderate illumination is recommended to preserve its natural sheen.

Genetics Note

Albino (Recessive): Removes black pigment, leaving whites, yellows, and reds visible. In combination with Anery, this gene contributes to the clean white base of the Pearl morph.

Anery (Recessive): Removes red pigmentation, resulting in grey, white, and black tones when visual. When combined with Albino, it eliminates both red and black pigments.

Pearl (Albino + Anery Double Recessive): A combination of both Albino and Anery genes, producing an almost pure white or silvery-white snake with faint cream or silver markings. This morph is the Honduran Milksnake equivalent of the “Snow” form seen in other species.

Genetic Combination Summary

The Honduran Milksnake (Pearl) expresses two recessive traits combined into one double-recessive morph:

• Albino (Recessive): Removes black pigment, brightening remaining colours.

• Anery (Recessive): Removes red pigment, producing silvery-grey tones.

• Pearl (Albino + Anery Double Recessive): Combines both effects, resulting in a near-white to silvery appearance with faint visible banding.

Together, these genes create a smooth, pale, and iridescent Honduran Milksnake that stands among the most prized and highly regarded light-coloured morphs. The Pearl’s balance of softness and contrast, paired with its strong breeding potential, makes it a cornerstone in pale colour line development.