CARING FOR YOUR PET SNAKE
Snakes are interesting and easy to care for. There are a large variety of species suitable to the home environment. These snakes are members of two families, the Boidae and the Colubridae. The Boidae family consists mainly of Pythons and Boas. The Colubridae family includes Kings, Corns and Milks.
Snakes can be found in deserts, savannas and rainforests with conditions ranging from temperate to tropical. Different species have adapted to living in trees, in water, on the ground or in burrows.
Snakes do not require social interaction. In fact, most snakes are quiet and reclusive, spending much time in their favourite retreats conserving energy between feedings. Most snakes can be handled for short periods at a time, but over-handling can cause stress. There are times when they will prefer to be left alone. These times include the shedding periods and feeding times.
One, Two or More? It is never wise to mix different species of snakes together. They may interpret one another as a threat or competition for food.
NUTRITIONAL - A natural diet for most snakes consists of the small rodents and birds it has captured. Captive-bred snakes will accept killed rodents without much trouble. Frozen mice and rats can be thawed out prior to feedings. Appetite stimulants are available to entice your snake to accept the food offered, should the need arise.
BEHAVIOURAL - Hiding Places – Every living creature needs an area to call their own. A hideaway is necessary in reducing stress and makes them feel secure. Tree dwellers prefer plastic plants or hollowed cork bark suspended near or around a high branch. The ground dwellers will make use of natural and artificial caves as safe havens within their homes.
MAINTENANCE - The bottom of your snake's home should be easy to clean, as well as mimic his natural surroundings. Snakes from humid tropical environments utilize bark-style litters to retain humidity. Desert snakes prefer sand substrate for its heat retaining ability. Reptile carpets can be useful for all varieties of snakes although ground dwellers may hide under them.
Come in today and let one of our Pet Experts®
tell you all about these amazing reptiles!
Lethbridge Town Square, 905 1 Ave S #212
(403) 320-0095 | www.petland.ca
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