Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've been thinking about getting a pit and have been unable to come to conclusions based on online resources.

What I'm looking for is a snake that would max out between 5 and 6 feet (e.g. small enough to eat solely rats and be happy about it) and also has a nice disposition (I realize that there are exceptionally bad and exceptionally good examples of every snake so I mean a type that are nice more often than not).

I know you guys and gals love all pits but I'd like you to play favorites (perhaps out of earshot (or vibration-shot I guess) of your snakes) .

Thanks.

i am not sure if you're asking about pituophis specifically,but no matter the genus and species you choose,it's an individually variable thing first and foremost...as for pits in particular,regardless of species,most seen a little fiesty in youth...many,if not most,mellow with age....i don't see too many that actually get grumpier with age,so i guess i'm suggesting look for a not-so-fiesty captive bred baby,as they'll likely stay that way...wish i could get more specific for you,but for each calm specimen i have or had in the past,i have had an equally fiesty specimen of the same species!lol
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"with head raised regally,and gazing at me with lidless eyes,he seemed to question my right to trespass on his territory" Carl Kauffeld

Pits have been by far the best snakes I have ever owned. I always heard about them throwing fits and hissing all of the time but honestly, I have only 1 that does that, the rest are as calm as can be. They seem to be more aware of their surroundings as well.

My personal faves are northern pines. I have 6 and each one is incredible in attitude, friendliness, and liking to be held.
My other faves are bulls, especially locality morphs or color morphs.

Northerns can average 5-6 feet and rats would do them just fine.

SOLOMON FRASER
2001-2006

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Genesis 1:1

I agree with Billy. I've kept bulls, gophers and pines. In my experience, bulls didn't really seem to enjoy being handled. Most gophers don't routinely get to the size you mentioned. I have a trio of northern pines, they're big and seem like being handled. I would highly recommend a northern as someone's first Pituophis.

Tim

Third Eye