Snake care guide for the different species

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 Boas are a family of snakes known for killing their prey by constriction—wrapping around the animal and tightening until it can no longer breathe. They are widespread across Central and South America, with some species in Africa, Madagascar, and the Pacific. 

 Ball pythons (Python regius) are a species of non-venomous constrictor snake native to West and Central Africa. They are called “ball” pythons because of their defensive behavior: when threatened, they curl into a tight ball with their head protected in the center. 

 Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are non-venomous snakes native to the southeastern United States. They are named “corn snakes” because they are often found near cornfields, where they hunt rodents that feed on stored grain. 

 Hognose snakes belong to the genus Heterodon and are non-venomous snakes known for their upturned snouts, which they use for digging in sandy soil. They are native to North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

The name “hognose” comes from their pig-like nose shape.

 King snakes belong to the genus Lampropeltis and are non-venomous constrictor snakes native to North and Central America. They are called “king” snakes because they are known for preying on other snakes, including venomous species like rattlesnakes. 

 Milk snakes (Lampropeltis triangulum) are non-venomous snakes native to North, Central, and parts of South America. They are closely related to king snakes and are famous for their bright, banded coloration, which often mimics the dangerous coral snake—a defense called Batesian mimicry.

The name “milk snake” comes from the myth that they would suck milk from cows, which is not true.

 Garter snakes (Thamnophis genus) are non-venomous snakes native to North America. They are among the most common snakes in the U.S. and Canada. Despite being harmless to humans, some species have mild saliva toxicity that can affect small prey. 

 Water snakes (Nerodia genus) are non-venomous snakes native to North America, often found in and around freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes. They are excellent swimmers and spend much of their time in water. 

 Green tree pythons (Morelia viridis) are non-venomous pythons native to New Guinea, parts of Indonesia, and northern Australia. They are famous for their vivid green coloration and arboreal (tree-dwelling) lifestyle.