Bull Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus sayi), a large constrictor, and the largest snake native to Missouri. Will eat adult rats, mice, and baby chicks. Usually do well in captivity.
Water Snakes (genus Natrix), will eat minnows, frogs, tadpoles, and sometimes mice. They will bite when captured, and will at times continue to bite after being in captivity for a long time.
Hognosed Snake (genus Hetrodon), a smaller variety, averages 2 to 2½ feet. Feeds only on toads, but nearly always eats in captivity.
Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor), one of the most commonly kept snakes. Being a tropical snake—it must be kept warm (80 to 88°F). Will eat rodents and birds.
Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus), which may reach 20 to 24 feet long, is often kept as a pet by the amateur snake collector. They require the same temperature and food as the boa constrictor.
Reticulated Python (Python reticulatus), same as the Burmese python, but will grow longer. Large specimens will eat rabbits.
African Rock Python (Python sebae), same in general needs as the Burmese Python. Will grow slightly longer, and may not tame as easily as some other species. Large specimens will eat rabbits.
Ball Python (Python regius), another species from Africa, but averages 3 to 4 feet in length. Usually a good feeder on rodents, but at times may only eat birds. Require the same needs as other tropical species.
Black Rat Snake
Elaphe o. obsoleta