01/28/2026
I’d love to introduce our newest Educational Ambassador: “Mojo”
Mojo is an Everglades Rat Snake not native to our area, he is a non-venomous snake that is native to the wetlands and grasslands in southeastern United States, particularly Florida's Everglades. They are known for their vibrant orange coloration and docile nature, which makes this snake popular among reptile fans.
Did you know:
They are known for the lack of scales, giving it a unique smooth texture.
Typically grow to about 4-6 feet.
This mutation can provide advantages in certain environments, such as increased flexibility. Mojo loves his branches to climb on.
Scaleless snakes may have better moisture retention, which is beneficial in humid habitats like the Everglades, so we must keep the humidity level high in his enclosure.
The absence of scales is a recessive trait, that is best compared to albinism that appears in many animals (including snakes). This can be passed down to offspring, provided scaleless snakes mate with other scaleless snakes.
A scaleless snake's eyes appear larger, but it's because of the lack of scales around them that make them stand out more.
The Everglades Rat Snake has a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years in captivity with proper care.
Scaleless" is actually inaccurate for these snakes. They do have scales that completely line their bellies which are called ventral scales, just like normal snakes have. This is important because all snakes need ventral scales to effectively move and slither. The scales grip the surface so the snake can pull itself forward. If it were truly scaleless, the snake would not be able to move at all.
One of the common questions about scaleless snakes is if they shed. Answer is yes; they do. Snakes shed their skin, not their scales, so the absence of scales has no effect on a snake's ability to shed. Scaleless snakes shed exactly like normal snakes, leaving behind one tubed piece that was their outermost layer of skin.
Mojo attended his first educational program and the children loved to see him and learn about all types of snakes.
Welcome Mojo!
And a big thank you to Driftless Reptiles for donating him to our program.