Although this is a personal decision, having worked with many, many different venomous species, I couldn't see myself finding any value in a top opening cage (for the most part). The thought of lifting a large gaboon or any heavy bodied snake up and over a top opening entrance makes no sense. Reaching down towards a cobra whose looking up at you saying "is this thing trying to eat me" will usually elicit a strong flight response. Now, if you are talking about a lidless type of rack system where the drawers are only 6 inches high that's one thing but a normal 2' high enclosure or beyond and you are talking about a major pain in the rear.

Front opening cages provide more versatility and allow the keeper to better manage the snake and the cage. I couldn't see doing it any differently. But, it all goes back to personal preferences.

Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center

>>Thanks alot for your detailed help....
>>
>>Will be a bit of time yet, but training at the moment...
>>
>>Thanks again.
>>
>>Dec
-----
Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, IL

[ Hide Replies ]

• Hot Room Curiosity? - Declan123, Tue Feb 12 11:54:54 2008
• RE: Hot Room Curiosity? - Lichanura, Tue Feb 12 12:05:03 2008
• RE: Hot Room Curiosity? - Declan123, Tue Feb 12 12:19:47 2008
• RE: Hot Room Curiosity? - TJP, Tue Feb 12 12:52:29 2008
• RE: Hot Room Curiosity? - Declan123, Tue Feb 12 15:51:08 2008
• Top opening versus front opening - Carmichael, Wed Feb 13 08:34:10 2008