Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering if anyone had anyy care information on Tiger Rat Snakes (Spilotes pullatus pullatus)? I would ecspecially like to know the cage requirements for an adult.

MAx

VORACIOUS!

I have 2.2 cb that are on average 5'-6' each. They can each eat 5 thawed adult mice a week - and nothing I've ever seen eats faster. Feeding multiple animals in the same cage can be dicey as they go into a frenzy...try to eat it if it moves first...ask questions later lol.

I keep them in pairs in cages that are 4'x3'x2' (LxWxH) with a hide box on one side. They are more terrestrial than one would think. I have sand blasted grape "trees" in each cage but they spend alot of time in the hide.

It peaks at 90F in my garage during the Summer so I use no additional heat. They are primarily nocturnal during this time of the year. I don't mist during the Summer and incorporate misting when cycling for breeding. A simulated "wet season" with cooler temps. and heavy daily misting REALLY gets them in the mood. All of mine have great temperments and are among the easiest snakes I've ever had the pleasure to keep.

My wife and I are going to Panama in January w/the intent of buying a second home down there in the highlands - would be unbelieveable to find one in the wild..that and all the other indigenous herps down there!

Bill

Thanks a lot for the information. I was now just wondering since you had pairs in your enclosures if the cage could be a little smaller to a 38"x21"x16" (LxWxH). Also did it take a long time to tame your snakes? Thanks again.

Max

Those dimensions would be fine for a smaller snake - I know some people who keep them in tubs in a rack-system. Spilotes act more like a giant Coachwhip however, and I feel more ground space is better. I used to house them in more vertically oriented cages but they didn't climb as much as I thought they would.

I've had these gems off-n-on over the last 10 years and have never been bitten. To me they are more bluff than substance! They are a very nervous and alert snake and even my cb snakes are easily agitated - rattling tails, and striking the glass. Once out however, they are remarkably calm. I did have two get loose and when each was recaptured hours later neither one showed any of the "wild snake reversion" so many "tame" snakes can exhibit once they get a taste of freedom.

Bill