can anyone tell me what the best way to cool snakes for the winter? thanks
Joel
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cooling the snakes
kcpits
Nov 09, 2007 02:44 PM
Replies (2)
shannon brown
Nov 09, 2007 03:12 PM
http://www.kingsnake.com/wchond/
Shannon
Link
RG
Nov 09, 2007 03:25 PM
Then they should be very cool!
HA!
I’ve had success with just covering the snake’s cages with black bed sheets (when I bread Cal Kings) for 3 months and opening the window at night (in Florida). I also didn’t offer them any food, but they always had fresh water.
With Hondurans, I’ve had success with a mini frig set at its warmest setting…around 47-50oF…again for about 3 months (just before thanksgiving, till just after Valentine’s Day). I keep each snake in its own plastic container, with a piece of towel and a water dish. Check on them once a week to refill water and to let in some fresh air.
In my opinion, the only thing that you need to successfully breed almost any king or milk snake (Mt. Kings being an exception) is to reduce its photo period for 3 months…the cooler temps, during brumation, just minimize weight loss during this reduction in photo period.
However, if you have a smaller snake that you want to breed next year…I would consider just reducing the photo period and continue to feed over the winter. Also, if you don’t already have it, add an external heat source. I’ve done this with Hondo females and had very good success. I was able to breed a full year earlier than I had planned.
Others may have some insight…good luck.
-RG
