I have been working with H. gigas for years and produce them annually. They are exceptionally hardy and very easy to maintain. Their diurnal activity pattern also makes them very suitable for large display enclosures.



Regarding their husbandry, a daytime temperature gradient of approximately 76-83 F with moderate levels of humidity works very well. Avoid temperatures over 85 F. Hydrodynastes gigas is relatively resistant to low temperatures, so NTLs in the high 60s are not a problem. A large water container should be provided, which most specimens will spend a fair amount of time in.



Their feeding response has already been mentioned, but the upcoming redundancy is well deserved. They are ferocious feeders with a feeding response that only seems to get worse with age. I have repeatedly observed large 7ft specimens literally launching themselves out of the water at any source of movement upon detecting rodent scent. They also have a relatively high metabolism, which makes for frequent feedings and cage cleanings. Other than during feedings, most specimens are fairly docile as adults. Hatchlings can be rather nippy and will often chew on your finger, if they get the chance.



Adult specimens will typically cease feeding around late October or November until January or February. Properly kept, H. gigas will readily reproduce. The clutch size is obviously variable, but the one mentioned above (24) is certainly a large one.



Hope this helps.



~TE









-----
Thomas Eimermacher

Department of Biological Sciences

Southeastern Louisiana University

Hammond, LA 70402

[ Show Entire Thread ]