Western Hognose (Arctic Watermelon)

Western Hognose (Arctic Watermelon)

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 Western Hognose is an eye-catching blend of cool and warm tones that produce a bright, high-contrast appearance. The Arctic gene lightens and refines the snake’s overall colouration, softening dark tones into silvery greys or pale browns. The Watermelon gene enhances red and pink pigmentation, creating vibrant flushes of colour along the dorsal blotches and sides. Together, they form a balanced and visually appealing morph that displays crisp patterning with delicate pastel or coral-like tones. The combination’s subtle elegance and strong colour expression make it a highly sought-after pairing in Western Hognose breeding projects.

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 the overall colour palette, producing sharp contrast and cleaner patterning. Super Arctic individuals display silver-grey or white tones with bold, reduced markings.

Watermelon (Polygenic): Selectively bred for enhanced red and pink pigmentation, creating warm hues that intensify along the dorsal blotches and lateral scales. When paired with Arctic, it results in a pastel or coral-like blend of cool and warm tones.

Genetic Combination Summary

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

• Arctic (Incomplete Dominant): Refines and brightens pattern contrast.

• Watermelon (Polygenic): Adds rich pink and red pigmentation.

This combination produces a beautifully balanced morph with crisp contrast and a rosy vibrancy uncommon in most Hognose lines. The Arctic Watermelon is prized for its clean, vivid appearance and forms a strong foundation for pairing into Albino, Toffee, or Anaconda projects.