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Description
Honduran Milksnake (Tangerine)
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 Tangerine Honduran Milksnake is a selectively bred colour line known for its vivid, high-saturation orange and red-orange tones. Unlike the classic tri-coloured pattern, the yellow or white bands in this morph have been selectively reduced or replaced by bright orange hues, producing a two-tone or nearly patternless orange-to-red gradient across the body. The black banding that remains provides sharp contrast, emphasizing the warmth of the dominant colouration. As individuals mature, their tones often deepen from bright citrus orange to rich, fiery copper, maintaining a glossy sheen across the scales. This morph’s name reflects its brilliant, fruit-like colouration and warm, balanced appearance.
Distribution: Originates from selective captive breeding of Honduran Milksnakes, emphasizing enhanced orange pigmentation and reduced yellow expression.
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: These snakes are bold, intelligent, and strong feeders. Juveniles may be defensive when young but typically calm quickly with regular handling. Adults are confident and easy to maintain, adapting well to consistent care routines.
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 maintain humidity.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area near 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 reliable feeders and readily accept a consistent diet.
Behaviour in Captivity: Active and inquisitive, Tangerine Honduran Milksnakes are confident animals that respond well to regular handling. Their intense colouration and calm nature make them excellent display animals.
Special Considerations: Milksnakes should always be housed individually, as they may consume other snakes. The Tangerine line is polygenic, meaning expression varies between individuals and can be selectively refined across generations.
Genetics Note
Tangerine (Polygenic Selective Trait): A selectively bred line emphasizing deep orange pigmentation and reduced yellow or white banding. Expression ranges from two-tone orange-and-black banding to nearly solid orange individuals, depending on selective pairing.
Polygenic Nature: The Tangerine trait is polygenic, not controlled by a single gene but rather a complex combination of inherited colour-enhancing factors. Breeders refine tone and brightness through careful multi-generational selection.
Genetic Combination Summary
The Honduran Milksnake (Tangerine) expresses a selectively bred, polygenic trait:
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Tangerine (Polygenic): Enhances orange pigmentation while reducing yellow or white banding for a rich, fiery appearance.
Through generations of selective breeding, the Tangerine Honduran Milksnake has become one of the most valued and well-recognized colour lines in the species. Its intense warmth, visual consistency, and ease of care make it a cornerstone in both display collections and future colour refinement projects.