Major League Exotics
Ladder rat snakes
Ladder rat snakes
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Add a piece of the Iberian countryside to your collection with this captive-bred male Ladder Rat Snake (Zamenis scalaris). Native to Spain, Portugal, and southern France, juveniles show the bold H-shaped "ladder" rungs that give the species its name, gradually transitioning toward the clean, twin-striped adult look.
A hardy, alert colubrid with an inquisitive personality, the Ladder Rat Snake is an uncommon and rewarding species for keepers who want something outside the usual lineup.
At a Glance: Sex: Male | Maturity: Juvenile | Origin: Captive Bred
Highlights & Features
- Classic Ladder Pattern: Juveniles display the striking rung-and-rail markings that fade into elegant adult striping.
- Hardy Old-World Colubrid: A robust, adaptable rat snake that thrives on straightforward care.
- Alert and Active: Curious and responsive, making for an engaging display animal.
- Uncommon in the Hobby: A distinctive Mediterranean species that stands apart from typical rat snake offerings.
Care Specifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Enclosure Size | Minimum 36" x 18" x 18" for an adult; secure lid required. |
| Social Behavior | House individually. Provide multiple hides to reduce stress. |
| Temperature | Basking spot 88–90°F with an ambient gradient to low 70s°F. |
| Humidity | 40–50% with a water bowl and occasional light misting. |
| Diet | Appropriately sized rodents every 7–10 days. |
| Substrate & Decor | Aspen or cypress mulch with hides on both warm and cool ends plus a climbing branch. |
Live Animal Shipping & Pickup Information
Temperature-Controlled Overnight Shipping: All live orders ship exclusively via specialized overnight freight to guarantee safe arrival by noon the next day. Shipments are climate-monitored and packed in insulated boxes with heat or cold packs as weather dictates. Note: our live arrival guarantee requires a signature upon the very first delivery attempt.
Local NJ Pickup (Advance Notice Required): Because our animals are kept under strict bio-security protocols at our off-site breeding facility, they are not housed on our main storefront shelves. You are welcome to pick up, but we require advance notice so our team can coordinate the drop-off to our main retail storefront. Alternatively, pickup can be arranged directly at our Northern New Jersey breeding facility. Please contact us after checkout to coordinate your pickup location and time.
Trade Show Pickup: We attend lots of reptile and exotic trade shows throughout the year, and you can arrange to pick up your order with us at a show — saving on shipping. Check our current show listings on our website and contact us after checkout to reserve your animal for pickup at an upcoming event.
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