Western Hognose (Arctic Watermelon Conda)

Western Hognose (Arctic Watermelon Conda)

Scientific Name: Heterodon nasicus
Common Name: Western Hognose Snake

Species Overview

Size: Adult females typically reach 2–3 feet (0.6–0.9 m) in length, while males average 1.5–2 feet (0.45–0.6 m). Both sexes feature the species’ characteristic upturned snout, adapted for digging and burrowing in loose soils.

Appearance: The Arctic Watermelon Conda Western Hognose combines three visually powerful traits for a bright, high-contrast appearance. The Arctic gene lightens and cools overall tone, sharpening contrast across the scales. The Watermelon gene brings out vibrant pink and red pigmentation, intensifying colour along the dorsal blotches and lateral patterning. The Anaconda (“Conda”) gene reduces and scatters blotches, resulting in cleaner, simplified patterning that highlights the morph’s saturated hues. Together, these genes produce a vivid snake with pale, cool background tones and striking, pink-red markings that stand out even among other Arctic lines.

Distribution: Native to central North America, from southern Canada through the Great Plains and into northern Mexico.

Habitat: Western Hognose Snakes inhabit open prairies, grasslands, and semi-arid regions with sandy or loose soil ideal for burrowing. In captivity, this morph thrives in terrestrial terrariums with soft substrate, climbing décor, and secure hiding areas.

Behaviour: Western Hognoses are diurnal, curious, and alert snakes known for their dramatic bluff displays, which may include hissing, neck flattening, or mock strikes. These displays are harmless, and with regular handling, they settle into confident, inquisitive animals.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide an enclosure at least 3 feet × 18 inches × 18 inches for adults, using deep, soft substrate such as aspen, soil, or a sand-soil blend. Include multiple hides, smooth décor, and low branches for enrichment.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (25–30°C) with a basking area near 90°F (32°C). Allow nighttime drops to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity between 30–50%, slightly increasing during shedding.

Diet: Offer thawed rodents approximately 1.25× the width of the snake’s mid-body. Feed juveniles every 4–5 days and adults every 7–10 days. Western Hognoses are reliable feeders that adapt easily to routine schedules.

Behaviour in Captivity: Hardy, engaging, and active, Western Hognoses thrive with consistent care and stable conditions. They are often seen burrowing or exploring during daylight hours and tolerate handling well once accustomed.

Special Considerations: Western Hognoses are mildly rear-fanged, and their venom poses minimal risk to humans unless an allergic reaction occurs. Handle calmly and house them individually to avoid feeding-related aggression or stress.

Genetics Note

Arctic (Incomplete Dominant): Lightens and cools overall colour tones, sharpening contrast and producing crisp, pale backgrounds. Super Arctic individuals are nearly grey-white with sharply defined markings.

Watermelon (Polygenic): Enhances red and pink pigmentation, particularly on dorsal blotches and lateral scales. When combined with Arctic or Albino lines, it yields vivid, candy-like tones.

Anaconda (Incomplete Dominant): Reduces and scatters dorsal blotches, producing a clean, minimalistic appearance. Super Anaconda (homozygous) forms are nearly patternless.

Genetic Combination Summary

The Western Hognose (Arctic Watermelon Conda) expresses two incomplete dominant traits and one polygenic trait:

• Arctic (Incomplete Dominant): Enhances contrast and cools overall tones.

• Watermelon (Polygenic): Intensifies red and pink pigmentation.

• Anaconda (Incomplete Dominant): Reduces and simplifies dorsal patterning.

This combination produces a visually dynamic snake with crisp contrast and bold red-pink hues. The Arctic Watermelon Conda is highly valued for its balance of subtle refinement and striking colour, making it both a standout display animal and a strong foundation for future breeding projects.