Choosing your snake

Royal Python

                   

When considering buying a snake as a pet, choosing one can be the hardest part. There are so many morphs around and different breeds to choose from. I cannot stress enough how important it is to conduct research into the type of snake you are considering and learn everything you can about the animal. Most important things to think about is first of all, can you feed a rodent to an animal? Do you have enough space for the vivarium they need when they are fully grown? Do you know what size your new pet will be? Can you afford it? Will your family still talk to you if you own a snake? How long they live for? Can you care for the animal and have time for it? Can you cope with rodents being stored in your freezer?

Boa Constrictor

After research you are now ready to visit your pet store! I would say this is probably the best way to pick out a snake that you like and are comfortable with. Each individual has different likes and needs. I have known keepers that have started with a large python and others a corn snake. It really depends on the owner and what they are comfortable holding and housing. I myself do not feel really comfortable with monster sized snakes! My first snake was a corn snake as they are manageable and stay relatively small. They are also docile in nature and easy to handle although some find them a little quick compared to fat bodied snakes. Ensure that the snake you pick is in healthy condition. Check for pests such as mites on the snake and observe how the snake reacts to being lifted and handled. If the snake's tongue is flickering a lot, this is a good sign of a healthy snake. Just handle a few and see what you are most comfortable with.

Burmese python

Corn snake

After research and handling a few snakes, you then need to get the right size vivarium and equipment for ideal hosing. This includes a heat source, plantation, hides, water dish, thermostat, bedding and food. Alternatively some keepers would opt to keep their animals in a rack system as they can contain more animals and for this system all you need is a water dish and bedding. Once you have housing and equipment you are now ready for your forked tongue friend!

Rack system