Zamenis longissimus

A tall, height-oriented terrarium (arboreal), well ventilated, with branches and climbing areas

Minimum dimensions for an adult; bigger is always preferable for this active, climbing species. Provide sturdy branches, bark and hides both up high and at ground level. WARNING: species PROTECTED in Europe (Bern Convention Appendix II, Habitats Directive Annex IV; fully protected in France). Capture and taking from the wild are prohibited: acquire only captive-bred individuals with documentation. Not listed under CITES.

Moderate humidity. A slight increase or occasional misting during shedding periods. Avoid a stagnant, waterlogged environment.

Absorbent substrate allowing light digging. Keep it generally dry with a more humid zone; a permanently waterlogged substrate promotes scale rot and infections.

Beneficial. A diurnal species that readily basks in the sun: offer low to moderate UVB (T5 tube 5-6%, Ferguson zone 2-3) placed over the hot spot, with accessible shaded areas.

A large bowl of clean water available at all times for drinking and bathing, particularly useful before shedding.

Central and southern Europe (from France and Italy to the Balkans, Turkey and the Caucasus); relict populations further north (Germany, Czech Republic) and introduced populations in the United Kingdom. A temperate-climate species.

Carnivore (essentially a rodent-eater) — Rodents (mice, young rats), occasionally birds/chicks and eggs

A constrictor. Thawed prey sized to the snake's girth. Adult: 1 prey item every 7 to 14 days; juveniles more often. Risk of obesity in the event of overfeeding.

Clutch 5–11 eggs/young. Incubation of about 55-65 days at 25-28 °C. A winter cooling period (brumation) is generally necessary to trigger reproduction.

• Respiratory infections (unsuitable temperatures/ventilation)
• Dysecdysis (difficult sheds) linked to too-low humidity
• Scale rot / 'blister disease' on overly humid substrate
• Snake mites (Ophionyssus natricis)
• Obesity from overfeeding and lack of exercise