not sure if you have to brumate hogs but it seems like a crucial step for successful breeding. I'm on the fence too but my girl wants a western hog and i like the malagasy golden hognose, similar yet different but i think its kind of a middle ground between a Kingsnake and a western hognose purley based on appearance. Might want to look into those . Kingsnakes seem like they are easier to take care of but that is my speculation.