Should snakes live together or alone? Essential UK guidance

Whilst snakes may be seen in groups in the wild—where they are described by terms such as pit, den, nest, bed, or knot—most pet snakes do far better as solitary inhabitants when kept in captivity. Their natural behaviours often do not translate well to cohabitation in enclosed environments, where stress and aggression can quickly arise, impacting their welfare.

Snakes are often misunderstood creatures, some assuming them to be “slimy” or uncomfortable to handle. On the contrary, snakes are dry and scaly, and many enjoy gentle human interaction. The companionship of a snake can be calming and rewarding for many keepers, though it is important to recognise that their preferences vary between individuals and species.

Should I be frightened of snakes in the UK?

The only venomous snake native to the UK is the adder (Vipera berus), also known as the common viper. While its bite requires treatment, fatalities have not been reported in the UK since 1975. Adders are not sold in licensed pet shops, and most pet snakes kept in the UK are harmless species.

For those seeking companionship, snakes can be appealing pets. However, those who contemplate housing more than one snake together should be aware of potential challenges that sharing an enclosure can bring.

What problems arise when snakes live together?

Many experienced snake owners firmly advise against housing snakes together due to the risks involved. Cannibalism is a genuine concern; snakes can and will eat each other if hungry, regardless of whether they are the same species. King Cobras, for example, are notorious for eating other snakes, even during social interactions.

Attempting to keep multiple snakes in a single vivarium to save space or costs is often a false economy. The risk to the health and life of your snakes far outweighs potential savings. Investing in adequate individual enclosures is a responsible approach that supports the welfare of each pet.

What may appear as friendly coiling or clustering behaviour is often a struggle for dominance. Snakes jockey for the best position and resources within the enclosure, which can lead to bullying and stress.

If cohabitation is desired, it is best limited to similarly sized, same-sex, adult snakes to reduce dominance conflicts. Providing several hides within the vivarium allows each snake to claim a secure space, reducing tension.

The threat of disease in shared enclosures

Disease transmission is a significant risk when housing snakes together. Newly introduced snakes may carry infections or parasites unknown to established residents. A strict quarantine period of three to six months for new arrivals is vital to protect your collection. Dedicated keepers never skip this essential step to avoid costly and heartbreaking losses.

Feeding challenges when snakes share a vivarium

Dominant snakes often monopolise feeding opportunities, depriving submissive cage mates of food. This behaviour can rapidly lead to malnutrition and health decline for less assertive snakes. Observing feeding behaviour closely and adjusting care accordingly is crucial if you choose to keep multiple snakes together.

Best practice for housing multiple snakes in the UK

Research in 2025 reinforced the principle that most pet snakes in the UK should ideally live alone. Exceptions exist, such as some social species like garter snakes, but these cases require careful planning.

To safely keep multiple snakes together, follow these guidelines:

• Species suitability: Only house species known for social tolerance together.
• Quarantine: Always quarantine new snakes for 3 to 6 months before introduction to prevent disease.
• Space: Provide an enclosure large enough to allow all snakes to express natural behaviours and avoid crowding.
• Multiple hides: Provide several hiding spots spread throughout the enclosure for individual refuge.
• Feeding management: Monitor feeding to ensure all snakes get sufficient nutrition without competition.
• Environmental enrichment: Offer climate zones, climbing areas, and substrate suitable for the species.

These steps support the health and wellbeing of all snakes involved, minimising stress and aggressive incidents.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to house snakes together, the safest and most responsible care for most species involves solitary housing. Knowledge of species-specific needs, strict quarantine protocols, adequate space, and thoughtful enclosure design are key to successful snake husbandry. This not only protects your pets but enhances their quality of life.

Ensuring your snakes' welfare by providing suitable individual environments reflects the best practice in UK reptile keeping in 2025, promoting happy, healthy, and long-lived companions.