Long story short, I was once terrified of snakes. So, about a year ago I started following r/whatsthissnake to help with the phobia, learned SO much, and now I’m obsessed.

I’d like to get a pet snake in the next couple years, and I’ve done some light reading on husbandry and various species. I think I’ve landed on Lampropeltis getula, though Heterodon nasicus is such an endearing second.

I want to continue learning about Kingsnakes and Hognoses as pets and explore any other recommended species for novices before I make any commitments and move forward.

What are your opinions on the best beginner snake, considering all factors, from feeding to habitat to general care and anything I might not have considered as a novice? Are there any definitive resources you recommend? (If I see one more pet snake website tell me x snake isn’t poisonous I may just chuck my phone at the wall.)

I appreciate any and all advice. And as I’ve said, this is something I’m considering preparing for in about a year, and of course establishing proper enclosures and supplies prior.