Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Gray rat snakes are native to the United States, ranging from Florida to Mississippi. These semi-arboreal snakes are usually dark colored -- tan, brown or grey with dark patches. Rat snakes reach an average of 2 to 5 feet in length, although some adults have been known to reach lengths of 7 feet. Juveniles of the species have a distinctive mottled pattern that fades as they age. Gray rat snakes are known to be hardy snakes, which make them a good choice for novice owners.
Most reptiles make it obvious they are ready for breeding; their behavior changes drastically, they change color and sometimes even shape. But snakes are a little more subtle in their breeding signs. When ready to breed, snakes secrete pheromones, which are undetectable to humans. If you are wondering if your snake is ready to mate, there are a few signs you can look for in order to be sure.
Red-tailed rat snakes, which are native to the rainforests of central and southeast Asia, are arboreal snakes that can grow up to eight feet long. They have slim, bright green bodies with reddish tails. They are easy to care for in captivity, but they are often temperamental and unpredictable. Because of this, they should live alone and should not be kept by first-time snake owners.
Queen snakes (Regina septemvittata) are non-venomous snakes found in North America mainly to the east of the Mississippi River and as far north as Ontario, Canada. They can be identified by the pale stripes on their belly. A queen snake has seven stripes when it is young, hence septemvittata. If one is found injured, it should be given to an animal sanctuary.
Dogs as police companions is a common and long-standing practice. The dogs become an extension of the human's abilities, as they can smell and hear beyond the human range. Dogs are trained from puppies to become police dogs, and the police departments that recruit the dogs use larger crates in the back of the police car for specific reasons.
Garter snakes are one of the most common North American snakes to keep as pets because of their small size, and they're easy to care for. You can easily build a homemade habitat for your pet garter snake by simply recreating its world in a reptile tank.
Although snakes have no legs, a daring escape from their enclosure is not an uncommon occurrence. Once a snake is loose, calling it back does not work like it does for cats and dogs. Instead, you must be more resourceful if you hope to lure your snake back to its tank. Search your house from top to bottom first to see if you can locate the missing reptile. If not, there are some measures you can take to coax the snake out of hiding.
Wisconsin is home to 20 snake species, some of which are easy to recognize at a glance, while others could be mistaken for another species. In a state with two venomous species, identification can be highly important for avoidance. Non-venomous snakes sometimes bite when threatened, so knowing if the species is venomous is vital.
Wabash County is in northeastern Indiana and is home to two wildlife preserves and dozens of reptiles and amphibians. The sparsely populated county also has several species of snakes that can be found in its wooded areas, rocky lands and along the coast of the Wabash River.
Think of a snake not wanting to come out of hiding as you not wanting to get out of a warm bed on a cold winter day. If the snake is comfortable and feels safe, he isn't coming out. If you keep your snake in a cage it can become a master escape artist then vanish someplace in your house. There's no need to worry; there are a few tricks you can perform to get him back.
Each species of snake has its own distinguishable characteristics. These characteristics, primarily appearance- and location-based, can be used to identify by sight a snake found in the wild. There are approximately 35 species of snakes in the state of Indiana, but not all of these species are found in the northern part of the state. To identify snakes in northern Indiana, you should first study a snake reference guide, such as the book listed in the Resources section, and then use that knowledge to identify wild snakes based on certain characteristics.
Snakes make fascinating pets and, while these predators can be beautiful and friendly, during shedding time, they can get aggressive and snap at you. Snakes usually stick to a fixed feeding routine that ranges from once every week to every couple of weeks. Sometimes, feeding a snake can fall during one of the few shedding times your snake goes through yearly and it's important to know how to safely feed your snake to avoid injury to yourself or your snake.
Snakes are carnivores and must therefore have access to prey, such as rats, to thrive. In the wild, snakes follow a specific feeding schedule that differs depending on the environment and type of snake. Learn the proper method for feeding your pet snake to ensure the best relationship between you and your slithery friend.
Bull snakes have numerous habitat options since they live in a wide area of the U.S. They can be found in the central plains, the dry regions of the southwest and even as far north as Canada. They are huge snakes that can get up to 8 feet in length. They are known for being good hunters, and farmers often like them for their ability to capture mice and rats.
Having your baby corn snake escape its enclosure is probably one of the most heart-wrenching, yet most common, problems snake owners face. Regardless of what type of enclosure you have, baby corn snakes have a knack for being able to find the smallest of openings and work their way out. While finding such a small snake may seem like a daunting task, there are a few things you can do to help make your search easier.
The term alternative habitat generally refers to man made or synthetic materials, place in a natural setting either intentionally or as waste material, being used by wildlife as a stand-in for their natural habitat. Typically when referring to alternative habitats one refers to synthetic ocean reefs and fish habitats. However the term can also refer to natural habitats not associated with a specific species, or part of a specie's life cycle, that the species has resorted to residing in due to external circumstances.
Red rat snakes, sometimes referred to as corn snakes, feature brownish-gray or peach bodies with thick, red rings. Average red rat snakes reach about five feet in length while some may attain eight feet in length. Red rat snake bites do not pose a threat to humans, which makes them an ideal selection for a house pet if one likes snakes. Although these snakes appear like invincible predators in the wild, they require particular care in feeding and housing. They are prone to serious health problems if the owner neglects to make proper living arrangements.
Pine shavings are used for horse, chicken and poultry farm bedding. Pine is used as bedding because it controls the odor of animal waste and repels parasites and other insects. Pine is an absorbent wood that facilitates cleaning horse stables and chicken coops by soaking up liquid waste. There are many grades of pine shavings, from low-grade to dustless compressed kiln-dried DryNest pine shavings. DryNest is a brand of packaged pine shavings manufactured by Kraay Enterprises Inc.
Not all pet owners choose to have a traditional animal such as a cat or dog; some people are drawn to pet snakes. Since snakes are reptiles, they require different care than our canine and feline friends. Snakes need special containment, food and other considerations. Often guidance is helpful with these somewhat delicate creatures, and having a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles is beneficial in keeping your snake happy and healthy.
Snakes are an attractive choice of pet for some people because many species are easy to maintain and do not require as much time to care for as more traditional pets. Breeding snakes for different colors, also called morphs, has gained popularity in recent years. An important factor in breeding snakes is ensuring that the snake is the appropriate weight for breeding. With proper care and diet, many snakes can be brought up to size fairly quickly.
Snakes are no limbed reptiles consisting of a head and skeletal muscle system that is known for its strength and flexibility. Reptiles are warm-blooded creatures, meaning that the warmth and stability of their body temperature is contingent on the temperature around them. This means that snakes must live in a habitat that supports their cold-blooded nature. Snakes are found all over the world except in the far Northern Hemisphere and Antarctica.
Heat treat pine shavings to eliminate most of the toxic aromatic hydrocarbons, called phenols, which pine naturally gives off. Phenols cause a strong odor and can lead to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, particularly in small animals. Treat pine shavings used as animal bedding to extend the life of the bedding and to reduce its harmful effects. Adhere to the regulations set out on a national level which restrict the minimum temperature of the heat treatment process.
Pets are naturally inquisitive, but sometimes their curiosity can get them into trouble. Your pet could get bitten by a snake as it investigates tall grass, woods and shaded areas. Immediate veterinary care for snake bites is critical. Poisonous bites can be deadly, and nonpoisonous wounds are infection risks. First aid can be dangerous if applied incorrectly. It should only be used if you're in an isolated location, and even then should be applied on the way to medical care.
A garter snake is a small snake found in many parts of North America, and is sold in some pet stores as an ideal pet for reptile-lovers and individuals with allergies. Garter snakes must be housed in a cage that is designed to meet all of their needs, including ample hiding locations, safe substrate, adequate ventilation, consistent heat, timed lighting and a bathing location. The items needed to build a garter snake cage can be purchased at many pet, craft and hardware stores, or from online retailers.
Corn cob bedding is made from crushed or ground corn cobs. It is used to cover the floor of animal cages, so it functions as a toilet, provides a soft surface for walking, and may be used to burrow or play in, depending on the animal.
There are many things to consider when selecting the proper bedding for your snake, including ease of cleaning, moisture retention and safety. Different snake species have different requirements, so be sure to research the specific needs of your snake.
There are many poisonous snakes that can mean danger to your cat outdoors. Though not as common as snake bites to dogs, snake bites to cats can occur, and owners should be know how to react in case of emergency.
Queen snakes are water snakes that can grow to be two feet in length. They are slender snakes that are typically gray in color, but they can also be found in light brown to olive green, with some specimens showing three faint stripes along their body. Learning about the diet of queen snakes can teach you more about how how they live in the wild.
Wood shavings, sometimes labeled as wood chips, are small slivers of wood that you can put into an animal's cage as bedding. Wood shavings are offered from a variety of different wood types. Some animals, such as snakes, require specific types of wood shavings to prevent allergic or fatal reactions.
With proper selection and diligent care, snakes can make excellent, hardy pets; but from time to time, they are prone to skin problems. Skin problems on snakes can be persistent, recurring issues, but by being more aware of them, you can begin early, effective treatment.
It is not safe to use aquarium rocks (gravel) as pet snake bedding. Other substances similar to gravel, like kitty litter or corn cob, should also be avoided, according to James Harding of Michigan State University.
The health of your snake depends partially on the humidity of its habitat. If the air is too dry, shedding can be difficult, leading to a loss of blood supply as the snake grows too large for its unshed skin. If the air is too moist, this can cause snakes from dryer climates to stop eating. Controlling the humidity of your snake's enclosure is necessary, but can be very simple and inexpensive.
Many people enjoy the company of a reptilian friend. Snakes are commonly sold at large pet stores, and make quiet, undemanding pets. Still, there are some important details to consider when setting up your pet snake's habitat, and proper bedding is one of the most important. Knowing what type of bedding works best--as well as what doesn't--is crucial to your pet snake's health and well-being.
Whether your pet is the impressively large red-tailed boa constrictor, the small rosy boa, or the rare sand boa, feeding it is basically the same. In the wild, boas thrive on a diet of small mammals, lizards, amphibians, birds and even other snakes. In captivity, you are limited to small chickens and mammals raised and frozen for the purpose of feeding captive wildlife.
The northern water snake is a nonvenomous, beneficial snake commonly found around lakes, streams and freshwater marshes ranging from southern Ontario to North Carolina. Although they don't display the brilliant colors of a corn snake or gentle nature of a ribbon snake--in fact, they can become agitated and bite when handled--northern water snakes do enjoy some popularity as pets, and owners report they can eventually become tame. They usually are easy to feed in captivity, and with a little preparation and some simple techniques you can make sure your northern water snake gets a proper diet.
Mites are small parasites that feed on the blood of a host animal. You may notice that your snake has a mite infestation if you see small black dots (though they can also be red or orange) moving on the body of the snake. According to anapsid.org, mites tend to group themselves around the eyes and on the edges of the scales. Getting rid of mites can be difficult, but if you're thorough and keep an eye out for future infestations, your snake's health and comfort will benefit.
Snakes are cold-blooded animals and therefore are unable to regulate body temperature. Instead, they rely on the ambient temperature of the environment. As such, it is important for snake owners to ensure that the snake has temperature options that will give it the best comfort.
Owning a pet snake requires much more care than many people may realize. There is a lot to learn about the habitat requirements, dietary needs and especially the proper health care of your pet snake. Mites are one of the most common afflictions that pet snakes and other reptiles suffer from; knowing how to spot and treat snake mites is integral for the health and well being of your pet snake.
If you have snakes as pets, then you know how important it is when you are setting up snake cages. You have to make sure that your snake has plenty of space and a heat source. Since snakes are cold-blooded, they have to have some place in their cages where they can warm up. Temperature is often controlled by high intensity, or spot, lights. Some people also use spotlights to show off their snake cages when displaying them for people to view and enjoy their pet snake.
Repelling snakes requires eliminating rodents and hiding places. Keep the grass mowed and repel snakes with tips from a certified animal control officer in this free reptile pets video.
A red-tail boa snake is usually a well-mannered exotic pet, but they can get very large. Get more red-tail boa snake information from a reptile specialist in this free video on exotic pets.
Emerald tree boa snakes are arboreal snakes, meaning they will spend most of their lives in trees. Find out more emerald tree boa snake information from a reptile specialist in this free video on exotic pets.
Venomous snakes pose a threat to pets as well as people. When our pets spend time outside in warmer weather (or in the case of climates like California, year 'round)--there is always the risk of snake bites. As you are probably aware, snake bites can often be fatal--therefore how you treat the bite can be a matter of life and death for your pet. Here are the steps to treating snake bites in pets.
If you are going to have a snake as a pet, you will need to learn about the habitat it needs to be comfortable at your house. Your snake should not be able to escape from its snake terrarium, and the tank also needs to be warm and give your snake places to hide. Many pet shops that sell snakes can also help you choose the best container for the type of snake you purchase or that you already own.
When you just can't find the right enclosure for your pet snake at a pet store, it's time to get creative and make or order a custom cage for your snake. Many enthusiasts choose to customize basic cages and tanks purchased at a pet store to facilitate the needs of their snake, and replicate the snakes native environment.
Sea snakes don't breed well in captivity and are not recommended as pets. However, attempts are being made by zoos and aquariums to breed them to keep various species from going extinct. There is still a lot about sea snake biology that we don't know, but scientists do know that there are dozens of snake species grouped under the term "sea snakes."
Many vets, pet stores and reptile specialist can provide a plethora of information on your King Snake. Learn more in this free video series and guide.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain care for pet snakes by providing information about bathing and shedding.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain the risks of having your pet snake interact with other pets in your household.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain if pet snakes right for you and your family.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain the ramifications of having a pet snake in a home where a family member is uncomfortable with snakes.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain which species of snake are not recommended as pets.
Watch an exotic animal health technician explain how to choose the right pet snake, providing tips for choosing the right pet store.
Caring for a pet snake is different than caring for a pet dog or pet cat. Snakes require specific living conditions and food in order to thrive. As a result, it’s important to understand how to care for one before you bring him home. Here are a few guidelines you’ll want to follow.
You have always dreamed of owning a pet snake and now you have decided to purchase one. If you have not already set up your snake's habitat you need to do that first. Pet stores usually carry young snakes so they are smaller and easier to handle. They also lean towards the non-aggressive breeds. If you want to find a mature snake you will probably need to find an individual with a snake for sale that you can purchase. How do you find snakes for sale?
Transporting a pet snake is not difficult if done correctly. Next time you need to take your pet snake to the vet, home from the pet store or just out for the day, try these tips to transport him safely.
Find out the importance of a water bowl in your tank, and what size to use in this free video.
Learn how to make sure your pet snake has shed its eye caps and what can happen if it doesn't shed them in this free pet care video on caring for a sick pet snake.
Learn about common treatments for illnesses and parasites in pet snakes and how to keep a healthy habitat for your snake in this free pet care video about caring for sick pet snakes.
Learn how to treat loss of appetite in your pet snake, by force feeding it if needed; learn more tips on caring for a sick pet snake in this free pet care video.
Learn how to treat ticks, lice, and mites on pet snakes in this free pet care video clip on caring for an ill pet snake.
Learn how to check for internal parasites in your pet snake and what to do if your snake has parasites in this free pet care video on caring for a pet snake.
Learn how to watch for and treat constipation in your pet snake in this free pet care video about caring for a sick pet snake.
Learn how to assess the health of a pet snake by checking it's colors: dark, vibrant colors means a healthy snake; get tips about caring for pet snakes in this free pet care video.
Pet snakes are not for everyone. They are fascinating, and if you handle them on a regular basis, they do become tame. Carefully research different types of snakes before buying to see which one would be best for you. Some grow very large and can become dangerous. People have a variety of pet snakes, from the garter snake to a huge python. They all have special needs and different diets. If your pet snake becomes sick, here's what you need to do.
Snakes can make for both fun and interesting pets. They can provide their owners with years of relatively trouble free and educational ownership. In order to keep your snake happy, his living environment needs to be set up correctly. This guide explains how to set up a snake cage.
Mouth rot in pet snakes is an infection in the mouth that can elevate to a very serious condition that affects deep tissue and even bone. If you feel your snake has mouth rot, you must treat him immediately, or your snake could die.
All snakes shed their skin periodically as they grow. Because snakes don't have eyelids, they also shed the clear skin over their eyes, called eye caps. On occasion, the eye caps on some snakes, especially those held in captivity may not come off with the rest of the shed. You need to check your snake for retained eye caps and remove them if they are present.
Pet snakes purchased in pet stores often have internal parasites. It is important that if your snake has internal parasites, you get it treated by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will most likely give you antibiotics to give to your pet snake. Follow these steps to look for signs that your snake has internal parasites.
Keeping a pet snake requires special care. If you are a new snake owner, feeding a snake will take some research to familiarize yourself with your snake's eating habits. Without the proper knowledge on how to feed your snake, you may cause illness or even the death of your pet.
Snakes are becoming a very popular pet in the United States. Pet snakes, though, can be expensive. You need to be sure that the housing will keep the snake in. While a simple glass or plastic aquarium might work for some species, generally a pet snake requires special cages and enclosures. Here's how to best house a pet snake.
There are a number of reasons to bathe a pet snake, and really, it's quite easy as most snakes love soaking in a warm tub now and then. Bathing your snake helps relieve constipation, kills mites and promote shedding if the skin does not easily slough off on it's own. With a few simple tricks and some tender loving care, you will have one clean, happy snake in no time.
Snakes are cool reptiles to have as pets. Occasionally a snake will develop the pesky problem of striking at you. If you don't do everything possible to correct the problem, you will soon have a pet that you can no longer handle.
Snakes are reptiles in the suborder Serpentes within the order Squamata. They are largely legless and have elongated bodies, although primitive snakes such as boas and pythons still have vestigial hind limbs. Some snakes are venomous and should never be kept by the average hobbyists. However, many other species can make good pets with the proper care. The following steps will show how to keep a pet snake.
If you're a new pet snake owner, you may have been attracted to owning a snake because of its minimal feeding requirements. However, feeding pet snakes requires research and can be a little daunting for the squeamish. You need to take the time to familiarize yourself with your snake and its eating habits.
If you're in the market to sell a pet snake, you'll have to do some basic research as you prepare for your big sale. Ready your pet snake for sale by finding out what species of snake you have, its care requirements and its market value.
When we think of pet care, the things that we usually think of first are feeding, grooming and medical care for our pets. For all snakes, especially tropical snakes, the humidity level in the cage is also a major consideration. If a pet lives in air that is too dry, it will become dehydrated. Too much humidity can cause illness. Read on to learn how to increase the humidity in a snake cage.
Snakes have not been traditionally considered to be cuddly pets. It would be unusual to venture down the reptile aisle in the pet store and discover a selection of snake toys. However, by using sensitivity and a deft touch, both the snake and the pet owner can receive enjoyment from handling and sessions of gentle play.
Pet snake breeding varies slightly between each type of snake, but there are basic precautions that you should take to ensure your pet snake's health both before and after breeding. Keep in mind that you can often breed your snake with the male twice in a succession to rear even more young!
Snakes, like most animals, will instinctively hide an illness to avoid becoming vulnerable to predators. Furthermore, snakes lack the expressiveness of mammalian pets that allow the pet owner to tell if an illness is present. However, by becoming familiar with your pet snake and learning the common signs of illness, you can recognize common snake maladies and seek treatment before serious problems develop.
