The following is a list of snakes that may have a few drawbacks as pets, or are not recommended to keep in captivity:
Racers and Coachwhips (Coluber and Masticophis), very nervous ... seldom eat in captivity.
Ringneck, Brown, and other small burrowing snakes; these secretive species often will not eat in captivity, and require animal foods which may be difficult to secure.
Ribbon, Garter, and Green snakes; because they may be hard to feed in winter, it is best to keep only during the summer months.
Eastern Indigo Snake (Drymarchon corais couperi), this species is protected in the state of Florida, and is becoming rare over all its range.
Cook’s Tree Boa (Corallus enydris cookii), this species, as well as other tree boas, often have a bad disposition, and may feed only on birds.
Emerald Tree Boa (Corallus canina), not only does this species prefer birds to eat, they also seem to require a very high humidity.
Most tropical snakes do not do well in captivity. This may be due to the fact that they are taken out of their natural environment and it is next to impossible to duplicate the climatic conditions that they are used to.
Although the above lists are far from complete, it is hoped that they will give the reader some basic ideas on how to select the snakes for his small, home collection. Once again, it should be emphasized that within a particular species of snake, there may be some differences in individual personalities. It is possible to get a black rat snake that doesn’t eat, or a racer (genus Coluber) that does not bite and eats well in captivity. A person should learn from their own experiences, and also from the experiences of others, both professional and amateur.
The keeping of snakes can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it must be remembered that it is also a responsibility. You are responsible for the care and well-being of the animal. You must learn as much as possible about the requirements of a particular snake before you decide to keep it as a “pet”.