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A few weeks ago I came across 3 California Striped racers (M.l. lateralis). Has anyone kept these in captivity? If so? What were they like as captives. 2 of the 3 I was able to catch and handle for a while. The first 1 bit me, but calmed down in my hands after that. What are their general care requirements? I have an empty 20gal regular tank in a secluded low traffic area of my house that I'd house a single individual in. Any info greatly appreciated.
reako45
The only person that keeps those is Max Peterson from Cold Blood Unlimited. I will forward him a message for you.......Bill
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A twenty should work, for starters.
They do like a hidebox.
I keep mine in a Vision 332.
Out of five that I started with, two took to mice quite readily.
They like small individual meals & the prefer them moving.
I throw pinks, fuzzies, & pink rats to them - they're fun to watch eat. I'll usually feed 4-6 prey items per feeding. I have had them take prey out of my fingers.
They have a fairly high metabolism & can be fed several times per week.
The temps can flux between 70-85 with a hot-spot of upper 90s-100.
I don't handle mine much, but they don't bite anymore, unless it's a feeding response.
Hope this helps.
Max
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"I got out of the business because it's almost impossible to do business without breaking a law some place, whether you knowingly do it or not."
Tom Crutchfield
WoW! Thank you so much! The info you gave me was great! I went back to the spot where I saw them and they were gone. I'm going back this weekend! Once again, I cannot thank you enough for this information. There doesn't seem to be alot of general care info on Racer and Coachwhip captive care so what you gave me helps alot.
rwako45
Glad to help out.
If they don't take to rodents fairly easily, turn them back loose in the spot where you caught them & try some others.
Like I said with mine, two of the five took to them almost immediately; the others may have after a while, but might as well take the easy route.
Also, after you catch them, give them 3-4 days to settle in before trying to feed them.
Just out of curiosity, what part of CA are you finding them?
Mine are from the Santa Monica Mts.
Good luck,
Max
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"I got out of the business because it's almost impossible to do business without breaking a law some place, whether you knowingly do it or not."
Tom Crutchfield
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