Hi Gohogwild. and I did! hahahahahahaha



First off, basic care is the same with most colubrids. Kings or corns etc. But they are not kings or corns, so you can be different.



You asked a lot of questions but there are few or way to many answers, hahahahahaha The reason is, the way folks keep snakes, is based on their own reasons and their ability to be curious and creative. And, the answer is right in front of you.



I would ask, what makes you happy and what do you want to see your hogs do? Then I would ask, how can I do that.



You said, your hogs love to bask and love lite, yes they do, both in nature and in captivity. Yet, many many keepers do not give them lite or the ability to see out. My pair is right across from me and almost every time I work on the computer(in the day) they come out and watch.



So no matter what others do, do what you want. I am using both a heat pad and a basking lite. The cage right nest to them has kings and they do not use the lite.



ALso, once you have the basics, its your oppertunity to offer more then the basics. Also, once you understand the basics, it allows you to achieve high levels of success. Nobody said you have to do the bare minimum and recieve the bare minimum.



What I am indicating is, play with success, all snakes have levels of success. If they grow well, do what your doing a little more, Then see what happens.



The main guide to growth is, they should grow long and slender(thats very relative with hogs) Then bulk out at sexual maturity.



If They grow fat and not long, up the temps, not slow down the food.



I understand many folks say this and say that, but in 50 years of doing this, I never seen a snake fail from doing too well. They fail when we do something wrong.



If you provide a temp range from room temps to 100F you cannot go wrong. Let them pick, and make sure the hot spot is small(compared to lizards).



What is a problem, is having cages to small for proper temps. Its difficult to have upper temps in tiny enclosed cages. So many do not allow that, but its not about the snakes, its about the keepers. They want alot of snakes, instead of enjoying a few. Its a personal choice. THey choose to use small cages with very average conditions(you can only do so much in a small cage)



Anyway, you have lots and lots of choices. When you recieve different replys, make sure you put them in context to what you want to see with your animals. ALso ask more, cheers

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