Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a 60 gallon tank that's going to be opening up soon, and I'm thinking about getting a pair of bloods to put in it. Are they ok to live together? also, do you think that would be too big for a pair of hatchlings? And what kind of substrates does everyone use?your answers are much appreciated. Thanks!

Don't take this the wrong way. Do not get the bloods because you have an available glass aquarium. Here are reasons why:

1. an aquarium is not an appropriate enclosure for bloods. They do not like being picked up from above, but from the side using side opening snake enclosures.
2. 60 gallons is too big for anything other than an adult and then only one adult.
3. humidity and heating is challenging in glass aquariums unless the room is heated also.
4. Glass aquariums offer too much visibility so IF you did use one, you need to wrap three of the sides to offer more security. Bloods/short-tails are not exhibitionists so they like there privacy.
5. Screen tops do not do a good job keeping persistent snakes in and often leads to escapes or excessive nose rub.

SO, not to discourage you from getting a blood, if you get a hatchling or yearling you can house them in rubbermaid style tubs with lock down lids with holes burned into the sides for good ventilation and a heating mat made for snakes that stays around 90F to avoid burning or getting the enclosure too hot. The sweet spot of temps is 80-82F with newspaper substrate a water bowl big enough to get into and the sense of security. The security can be from a hide box, hiding under or in paper/substrate or just covering three sides.

Hope that helps. If you are like any of us herpers, you will find something to fit in the tank AND find a way to house a blood appropriately. You know their like potato chips...you can't stop at just one!

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www.richcrowleyreptiles.com
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ok... thanks for the info. I have been wanting a pair for a couple years now, but haven't had the space until now. I guess I'll have to wait on them tho. I have had a hard time finding a whole lot of information on them, but I am glad that you talked me out of possibly getting a couple of snakes that I just couldn't handle yet. Maybe in a couple more years... Can't wait!

Hi, Rich-
I know you are a seasoned Blood man and I very much respect your advice on keeping Bloods, so am curious: why do you say that Bloods don't like being picked-up from above? I kept my Bloods in Visions and other caging, then bought a Freedom Breeder and loved being able to approach my snakes from above...seemed to give me an advantage, and the snakes didn't appear to be particularly bothered by this. Thoughts?
thanks-
Jim

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"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he can never lose." (quote from Jim Elliott, "Shadow of the Almighty"

I have worked with bloods for over 10 years and have had them in both top opening and side opening cages and have never really noticed any difference. If anything I prefer them in top opening cages but thats just a personal preference. The top vs side debate is just one of those things in the hobby that will always be debated with supporters on both side of the field. I think in the end what is most important is that you are able to work (not necessarly handle though)your animals in the way in wich you are most comfortable as your comfort is dirrectally linked to your animals stress level.

Good points on the comfort/stress level. For the most part, newbie keepers have problems with housing Stp's in open top cages. Just word of advice to avoid such things. Also, I have taken many rescues escaped from glass aquariums with feeble screen tops. Though these days, there are better options/manufacturers.
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================================
www.richcrowleyreptiles.com
Support your local herp society
www.chicagoherp.org

I cannot answer that question for an adult pair, but yeah, its too big for babies. My Bloods seem insecure with a lot of space, smaller is better here.

Sincerely,
Matthew