Full Grown Eastern Indigo Snake: Size, Lifespan, Price & More

The eastern indigo snake is one of the largest and longest snake species found in North America. As these snakes mature into full grown adults, they develop an even more impressive and majestic presence.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about a fully grown eastern indigo snake, from their size and appearance to care requirements and more.

Size & Dimensions of a Full Grown Eastern Indigo Snake

At full maturity, eastern indigo snakes reach sizes that are quite impressive. On average, a fully grown male eastern indigo snake will measure:

• Length: 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
• Weight: 3-7 pounds (1.4-3.2 kg)
• Height: Up to 2 inches wide at the widest point of their body

However, some truly enormous specimens have been recorded at over 9 feet in total length. Females tend to be slightly larger than males on average. Their size and length make them one of the largest snake species found east of the Mississippi River.

Appearance of a Full Grown Eastern Indigo Snake

At maturity, the eastern indigo snake develops its handsome and distinctive color patterns. Adults exhibit:

• Jet black dorsal scales (top of body)
• Blue ventral scales (underside)
• Iridescent sheen to their scales that gives them a glossy, almost metallic look
• Well-defined borders between the black and blue colors
• Head that is triangular in shape
• Vertical pupils and eyes with brown irises

Their striking black and blue pattern camouflages them well among fallen leaves and provides excellent camouflage both day and night.

Personality of a Full Grown Eastern Indigo Snake

As eastern indigo snakes mature, their temperament settles into a pattern befitting their status as apex predators. Adults are:

• Confident and bold
• Not overly defensive unless provoked
• Quick to move away from perceived threats
• Intelligent and observant of their surroundings
• Solitary hunters that do not tolerate other snakes in their territory

While these snakes should still be given the respect and space due to wild animals, properly socialized adults can become quite docile in familiar human company.

Price of a Full Grown Captive-Bred Eastern Indigo Snake

Given their endangered status, it is illegal to own a wild-caught eastern indigo snake as a pet. However, some reptile breeders produce captive-bred babies for the exotic pet trade.

The price of an adult indigo snake that has been captive-bred and socialized ranges from $300-800 depending on the sex and size. Females and larger specimens command higher prices than smaller males.

Food & Feeding of a Full Grown Snake

A mature indigo snake's diet should consist of:

• Large adult rodents 1-2 times per week
• Small-medium rabbits or chicken halves for very large specimens
• Proper supplement with calcium and vitamin D3
• Access to a constant supply of fresh water

Due to their size, fully grown indigos only require feeding every 5-10 days. Overfeeding can lead to obesity or digestive issues.

Lifespan of Captive Eastern Indigo Snakes

With excellent care, eastern indigo snakes can live 20-30 years in captivity. This gives responsible owners many years to enjoy these long-lived animals.

Health Considerations for a Full Grown Snake

Some specific health tips for mature indigo snakes include:

• Annual vet checkups to monitor weight and general condition
• Address any wounds, infections or other issues promptly
• Replace heat emitters/bulbs as needed for proper thermoregulation
• Provide clutter in the enclosure for exercise and stimulation
• Bathe occasionally to remove any dirt or shed skin

Housing & Enclosure for an Adult Eastern Indigo

Maintaining an appropriately sized habitat is key to the health and well-being of a fully grown eastern indigo snake.

• Minimum enclosure size: 10ft x 4ft x 4ft for one large adult
• Larger plywood or glass enclosures are preferable to tanks
• Secure screen or mesh lid with locks
• Bedding: cypress mulch or coconut husk fibers
• Decor/clutter: rocks, branches, vines, foliage
• Space for a warm and cool thermal gradient using UTH and bulbs
• Hygrometer & thermometer to monitor humidity and temps

Care & Nutrition for an Adult Eastern Indigo

Regular husbandry and care for a fully grown specimen includes:

• Cleaning enclosure 2-3 times per month, more as needed
• Wash all bedding, decor, water bowls between fresh cleanings
• Supplement powder or liquid vitamins 1-2 times weekly
• Spot clean feces immediately when observed
• Monitor for shedding problems and offer assistance if needed
• Handle carefully and infrequently to avoid stress/injury risks

Estimated Cost of Care for a Large Adult Snake

In addition to the purchase price, plan for the following average annual ownership costs:

• Large PVC or wooden enclosure - $300-600+
• UV/ceramic heat emitters - $50-100
• Bedding/substrate - $50-100 year
• food (~25 large rodents/year) - $150-300
• Veterinary care (annual wellness exams) - $75-150
• Supplements - $30-50/year

Total estimated annual budget for food, housing, and care can range from $600-1000 depending on specific setup and needs.

Potential Behavior Changes in Adulthood

Some behavior differences may arise as indigo snakes mature fully:

• Increased skittishness and willingness to strike if cornered or restrained
• Less predictable feeding responses than when very young
• More prone to wander/explore entire enclosure space
• Greater strength makes handling riskier without training
• Potential for breeding/mating behaviors depending on sex being housed

Notable Traits of Adult Eastern Indigo Snakes

A few other characteristics that set mature indigos apart include:

• Life role as an apex predator with no natural predators as adults
• Speed and agility retain into old age despite their large sizes
• Ultraviolet vision aids in nocturnal hunting and navigation
• Acute senses of smell and taste used for finding prey and detecting threats
• Capable of holding their breath for long periods underwater
• Longevity and impressive maximum recorded sizes attained in captivity

We hope this guide has provided all the information needed about caring for and appreciating an indigo snake in adulthood.