Western Hognose (Super Conda het. Swiss Chocolate/Toffee)

Western Hognose (Super Conda het. Swiss Chocolate/Toffee)

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 Super Conda het. Swiss Chocolate/Toffee Western Hognose exhibits a nearly patternless body with soft, even colouration—an elegant display of the Super Conda gene’s full expression. The lack of dorsal blotches gives the snake a smooth, satin-like appearance, while subtle undertones of tan, caramel, or golden brown may hint at its hidden genetics. The Swiss Chocolate and Toffee genes, though not visually expressed, add warm, creamy undertones and significant breeding potential for future rich, brown-toned or caramel-coloured offspring. This morph’s simplicity hides strong genetic depth, making it both visually refined and genetically powerful.

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

Super Conda (Incomplete Dominant): The homozygous form of the Anaconda gene, which removes most or all dorsal blotches, producing an almost patternless snake. Known for its clean, uniform body tone and smooth, consistent colour.

het. Swiss Chocolate (Recessive Carrier): Carries one copy of the Swiss Chocolate gene, which produces deep, rich brown hues when visual—often darker and more saturated than Toffee.

het. Toffee (Recessive Carrier): Carries one copy of the Toffee gene, known for creating warm caramel and pinkish-brown tones when visual. (“het” stands for heterozygous—carrying one copy of a gene but not expressing it.)

Genetic Combination Summary

The Western Hognose (Super Conda het. Swiss Chocolate/Toffee) expresses one incomplete dominant trait and carries two recessive genes:

• Super Conda (Incomplete Dominant): Produces a clean, nearly patternless body with smooth colour transitions.

• het. Swiss Chocolate (Recessive Carrier): Enables production of rich, dark brown offspring when paired with compatible mates.

• het. Toffee (Recessive Carrier): Produces caramel and pinkish tones when expressed.

This morph combines the elegance of a patternless appearance with exceptional genetic range. The Super Conda’s clean look, paired with warm, chocolate-toned recessives, allows for the creation of richly coloured future combinations such as Swiss Chocolate Super Condas or Toffee Super Condas—both highly desirable in breeding projects.