Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Well, I have two ball pythons, but I have kept corns, cresties,leopard geckos, and a kingsnake.

I want a snake that doesn't get too big (smaller than a Large BCI), but not too small or thin(like a corn.) Also, I want it to be readily available, and not too pricey. (around 100-125 bucks)

Thanks

Check out Pituophis (bullsnake, pine snakes, gopher snakes). There is a forum devoted to the group here on kingsnake.com. They are among the largest snakes in North America and heavy bodied for a colubrid. Although they have a reputation for agressiveness, they can get as tame as a corn snake with some work. Husbandry is the same as for a corn snake. And they are GREAT eaters.

Paul Hollander

As paul has indicated, some of the Pituophis spp. would meet your criteria, especially Northern and /or black pines. I believe Drymarchon m melanurus (Black-tail cribo) would fit the bill as well and they lack the "attitude" most Pituophis spp. tend to harbor as youngsters. Both genera are worth taking the time to investigate and I would recommend a visit to both the Pit and Dry forums before making a decision.
I have worked extensively with both genera, but I have recently reduced my Pituophis spp. collection drastically, in order to focus on the Drymarchon spp. and I will say you cannot go wrong either way, as both are wonderful to work with and regardless of which you choose, you won't want to keep just one!

Best regards,

Jeff

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Jeff Snodgres
University of Arkansas
snodgresjeffreys@uams.edu
501.603.1947