09/05/2025
Chicharron the hognose snake is slithering into this week’s ! 🐍
Many people assume snakes are aggressive and hostile, but this is far from the truth. In fact, many snake behaviors are mistakenly described as aggression, when in reality the snake is simply trying to protect itself. Like all other snakes, hognoses have a variety of defense mechanisms to keep themselves safe.
The natural color and texture of the hognose’s scales mimic those of a venomous counterpart, the Eastern Massasauga. Potential predators might recognize these colors and mistake the harmless hognose for something much more dangerous.
Aside from mimicry, the hognose is known for one incredible defense mechanism that sets it apart from other snakes: when extremely threatened, the hognose will play dead! They flip belly-up, stick out their tongues, and may even regurgitate their last meal for the full effect. These snakes really are spectacular actors! 😆
When it comes to dramatics, Chicharron is no exception. He is the sassiest snake we have and is very particular about just about everything. Chicharron’s favorite activities include resting in his log, sitting under his heat lamp, and, most of all, digging tunnels! The hognose is a burrowing snake, so it spends much of its time underground or tunneling through the dirt.
Although the Farmyard is closed for the season for exciting renovations, Chicharron is still thrilled to be in the spotlight! His animal keepers are sure to spoil him every day until we can welcome more guests to gush over him in person. 😀
