Aodaisho Care Guide | Basic Care, Temperature, Feeding, and Hibernation Management for Japan's Native Snake Species

The Aodaisho (Japanese rat snake, scientific name: Elaphe climacophora) is the largest native snake species inhabiting Japan from Hokkaido to Kyushu. It grows to approximately 1.5–2 meters in length, with distinctive olive-green coloration. Captive-bred individuals are readily available domestically, and with proper husbandry, this species can live 10–15 years or longer. This article covers everything from setting up the proper environment to daily management for Aodaisho care.

Laws and Acquisition Methods to Know Before Keeping

The Aodaisho is not covered by the Wildlife Protection and Management Law, and reptiles are not protected under this law, so keeping them is legally permissible. However, local prefectural ordinances may restrict wild collection in some areas. If you intend to collect wild individuals, always verify your local ordinances first.

We recommend acquiring captive-bred (CB) individuals from domestic breeders. Captive-bred Aodaisho are often already acclimated to prepared foods (frozen mice), have lower parasitic infection risks compared to wild-caught (WC) individuals, and tend to acclimate to handlers more quickly. Through br-choku's breeder platform, you can purchase CB individuals directly from breeders and verify their history and health status in advance.

Proper Enclosure and Layout

As Aodaisho reach 1.5–2 meters in length as adults, a 120–150 cm wide enclosure is eventually necessary. Start with a 60–90 cm enclosure for juveniles and expand as they grow.

Enclosure Materials and Design

• Wooden enclosures: High heat retention and front-opening doors reduce stress compared to top-down access
• Acrylic enclosures: Easy to observe and clean, though thermal efficiency is somewhat lower
• Glass tanks (modified): Cost-effective but require a secure mesh lid to prevent escapes

Basic Layout Design

Aodaisho favor three-dimensional behavior (climbing), so providing thick branches and climbing wood reduces stress. Include 1–2 shelters (hiding spots) that are snug for the snake's body. Substrate options include wood chips, coconut husk mats, or puppy pads. For easy cleaning, puppy pads are convenient.

Temperature and Humidity Management

Temperature Settings

While Aodaisho are ectothermic, they are adapted to Japan's climate, so room temperature alone is sufficient for seasonal husbandry.

• Summer (May–October): Aim for room temperature of 20–28°C. Avoid direct sunlight and temperatures exceeding 35°C
• Spring and Autumn: Stable husbandry at approximately 18–25°C
• Winter (cold overwintering/hibernation): Details below

If creating a basking spot, place a far-infrared heater or heat panel on one side to establish a temperature gradient between a warm side (33–35°C) and a cool side (around 20°C).

Humidity

Ideal humidity is 50–70%. Before shedding, raise humidity to 60–70% to prevent incomplete sheds. Always provide fresh water; choose a water bowl large enough for the snake to soak its entire body, which helps with both humidity management and shedding.

Feeding Management

Food Types and Sizing

Frozen (thawed) mice are the primary food. Choose mouse size comparable to or slightly smaller than the snake's thickest body section. Progress from pinky mice to fuzzy mice to adult mice as the snake grows.

Live mice pose injury risks from bites, so frozen (thawed) mice are recommended. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator, then warm with lukewarm water to body temperature (approximately 37–40°C) just before feeding for better feeding response.

Feeding Frequency

Anorexia can occur before shedding or hibernation. Do not force feed; wait and observe until the next feeding.

Hibernation (Cold Overwintering) Management

The Aodaisho is a native Japanese species with hibernation ability. Allowing hibernation (brumation) during the cold period from December to March promotes reproduction, longevity, and natural cycling.

Preparing for Hibernation

1. From October to November, gradually reduce feeding, then fast by late November
2. Continue normal temperature maintenance for 2 weeks after fasting to complete digestion
3. Transition to hibernation conditions only after confirming complete defecation

Hibernation Care

• Temperature: Keep between 5–12°C (a cool dark space or refrigerator vegetable drawer works)
• Water: Provide a water bowl and change regularly
• Light: A dark environment is ideal
• Duration: Aim for 2–3 months. Do not artificially extend it.

Non-hibernating husbandry is also possible. If you maintain temperatures above 20°C, the snake can remain active year-round; however, reproductive success increases if the snake experiences a cold period.

Common Health Issues

Incomplete Shedding

Incomplete shedding, caused by low humidity or poor health, leaves old skin on the eyes and tail tips. Soak the snake in lukewarm water (30–35°C) for 10–15 minutes, then gently remove the softened skin.

Mouth Rot

If pus drains from the mouth or appetite loss persists, mouth rot may be present. Consult a veterinarian experienced with reptiles promptly.

Mite Infestation

Wild-caught and show-acquired individuals may carry mites. Perform warm soaks and use mite-specific treatments, then thoroughly clean and disinfect the enclosure and all equipment.

Summary

The Aodaisho is a hardy native snake adapted to Japan's climate and can be kept by beginners with proper setup. Acquiring captive-bred individuals from a trusted breeder and practicing appropriate enclosure sizing, feeding, and hibernation management will result in a long-term healthy companion.