Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi, this may be a silly question, but I do not plan to breed my snakes, but is it a requirement whether to brumate them or not? New snake owning question.

Generally it is not required, but if your snake goes off feed and loses more than a little body weight, you might consider it.
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Herp Conservation Unlimited
Mexicana Group Directory
Photography by Joseph E. Forks
Captive Bred Locality Matched Desert Kingsnakes

Hey thanks Joe. I had one more question. What kind of subtrate would you recommend? I heard using sand has its flaws such as the snake might swallow it, and have intestinal tract problems. Also, bark might cause some moisture and respiratory problems. Would kind of subtrate do you use? I should probably just stick to aspen bedding for easier spot cleaning and it is easier to see ticks or mites. It doesn't look very natural but I guess it works.

Tony

I use newspaper. Wadded up newspaper with a small piece of plywood on top makes a great hide box for alterna, or you can use any upside down planter tray or hide box. I have used aspen in the past and it works fine for most folks, if you keep it clean. One of my buddies uses "sani-chips" or something and I like that as well.
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Herp Conservation Unlimited
Mexicana Group Directory
Photography by Joseph E. Forks
Captive Bred Locality Matched Desert Kingsnakes

Hey thanks, thanks alot Joe. You know what they say, a silly question is a question never asked.