| Snakes! |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-701 |
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The ball python comes from central Asia and is one of the varieties that can make a good pet. This species is generally fairly docile, but it can grow to considerable size. Like many snakes, it also has specialized food requirements -- posibly requiring live food in the form of mice or rats.
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Though they're not necessarily for everyone, some snakes actually do make suitable and fascinating pets. But snakes have some specialized needs. Do some research before taking on a snake as a pet, and make sure that you have all the information that you need. Here are just a few things you should know about snakes as pets.
- Snakes can live a long time -- some as long as 40 years. Taking on a snake as a pet is a considerable commitment. It's lifespan may be more than twice that that of a typical dog or cat.
- Though they don't eat that often -- sometimes as infrequently as once or twice a month -- snakes do have specialized diets. Some of the snakes typically kept as pets (e.g., boas and pythons) eat rodents. You'll need to make sure that you have a source for rodents as a food source for your snake. In some cases, you may actually have to kill the rodents (or have someone else do it ) ahead of time before feeding them to your snake. If dealing with this diet issue is a problem for you, don't choose a snake as a pet.
- Don't take snakes out of the wild for keeping as pets. Many species of snakes are endangered in the wild and/or protected by laws. Captive-bred snakes are available from certified breeders. You can find them through pet stores or a local herpetological society. Also, snakes are susceptible to a variety of parasites. Snakes captured from the wild are likely to bring parasites into your home.
- Learn about the species you're considering, and choose wisely. Boa constrictors, for example, are a popular pet but can grow to more than a hundred pounds and 16 feet in length. Some pythons can grow to twice that size. Handling, housing and caring for a snake of this size requires special knowledge and safety precautions.
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