Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey y'all,
I have been keeping pythons on and off for many years, and the other day came across a coachwhip for sale. Well, being the kinda guy that I am, I came home and did a whole bunch of research on the snake. After seeing all of y'alls pictures, and your stories, I think I may get this snake. I was just wondering if anyone could point me in the direction of a general care sheet. This snake is about 18" to 20", eating to my knowledge, unsexed, and by for by all accounts looks health, but will be going to the vet on the way home if purchased.

Anyways, just wanted everyone heres opinion and help with a newbie coach keeper.

Thanks in advanced,

~Johnny

So here I was saying that I have been lurking, and then not two seconds later I read a post where some asked my same question...

Sighthunter, since there isn't really a written caresheet, I'll ask you a few questions if you dont mind, or anyone else that wants to step in.

First, as I mentioned, this snake is fairly young, what are the odds of it thriving in captivity? I do believe this snake is cb (okay, so he is at a pet store... dont shoot), but couldn't tell you for sure. He doesn't appear to have any scars and is externally bug free. I held him the other day, he seemed quick and jumpy, but not exactly the crazy snake I was thinking, just attentive and quick.

Second question, I want to have a natural looking set up, sand, wood, etc, etc. I also remember reading that these guys like space, which is different from what I am used to (to big of enclosure with a python can be just as bad). I eventually am going to build a custom cage (my other hobby, I love it when they work out like this!), would be sufficent for the time being? A ten, 20L or bigger?

Next question, UTH, over head lamp, or both? Since you, sighthunter, mentioned overhead lamp, I can then assume that humidity is not important, or can I?

I think that is all of the questions that I have, for now. Thanks again in advanced to all who answer. Best regards,

~Johnny

If it's a wild cought snake you either have to keep active with him or compleatly leave him alone,one way or the other, and bill says don't worm them just treat for protasoas or other harmful parisites, and if you move super slow when cage cleaning and watering you'll gain his thust, but if you sling open the lid or cage door you'll startle him and he'll never settle down. They do take some getting used to, even for well experienced indigo breeders (cousins) but a python is like the opposite of a coachwhip and in case you havent heared their face bitters.... good luck. JB