I agree for the most part. Now so much about leave it alone, but about providing proper secure shelters.

The problem is, there is a huge difference in meaning, between the word "hide" and what snakes actually do, "shelter". And with hognose, its very very different.

The pet shop definition is a half round piece of wood or other material a snake can go under. The problem is they are not shaped right. Snakes normally seek places that fit their bodies.

Hognose, make their own and stay in the ground not a cave or tunnel, more like many species of desert lizards that dig a hole the exact shape of their body.

There are two important parts, 1.by having no to very little air space, and burrowing in substrate that is of neutral humidity, they prevent dehydration. 2. being completely covered also allows them to feel secure. Which is very important to tiny snakes. As tiny snakes are food for many many predators, from insects, to frogs and toads, to other snakes, on up the ladder.

In nature, their ability to utilize their uniqueness, the nose for hognose and stay in the safety of the ground, is what allows them to compete with other species and exist. This is particularly important when they are small. Simply put, they do not know they are safe. All it takes to accomplish this is a few inches of substrate, and allowing part of it to be moist. When you do this, the whole cage is a hide and the snake can use it as needed. Best wishes

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