Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi, I'm new to snake breeding although I've owned reptiles my whole life.

I'm under the impression that I just need to keep the heat on, give them a big water dish to soak in, and let them mate. I'm not sure if she's pregnant yet, but I have seem them mating once.

Do I need to check for eggs somehow? I know I need to separate them once I know she's pregnant but I'm having trouble finding out if she actually is going to lay eggs. I bought them from a pet store for $200 and they are about 5 feet long each, maybe more and they've been in the same cage for about 2-3 months. I also separate them for a day once fed.

Thanks,

Michael

At 5 feet, they, at least the female, is probably undersized for breeding. I would seperate them for at least another year and feed the female very well to be sure she has enough reserves for egg production should she be already gravid.

Some python species need to be cycled somewhat, however I'm not sure about the Macklott's. My pair are still too young to have tried myself. I'm of the opinion that snakes are best kept singly except for mating attempts. Sometimes, just the introduction of the male is stimulation enough in such scenerios.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any more questions

Ian

Okay, thanks that was good for me to know.

Is there a certain time of year I need to introduce the male to the female?

I saw them mating so is there a way to check for eggs?

I'll seperate them now and build a new cage for the male.

Thanks again,

MS

I forgot to mention I will feed her a lot now just to make sure she does have enough resources in case she is gravid. In fact I'll feed her again later tonight.

Thanks,

MS

A good time to begin introductions is the fall as things cool. If you don't see anything happen, try again in the spring when things warm up. I don't know the specific breeding season for macklott's; perhaps someone in the python forum does.

Ian

Okay, If she's not already gravid I'll put them together in the spring.

Thanks for the info.