Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,

I'm mostly into kingsnakes and milksnakes, but am interested in knowing if Elaphe o. spiloides as a rule have good temperaments when handled, or would it be an exception. I know that it depends on different factors, but I just want a generalization, before I consider purchasing one.

Thank you!

Dan

I only have experience working with a few WC adults. I say few because they were not typically "pet" material as far as handling was concerned, and were NOT docile for the most part. Therefore I never kept any very long, and quit keeping them altogether many years ago. They ranged from vicious to untrustworthy. However, I have heard that if acquired as a captive bred baby and handled consistently, they can be cool pet snakes and very handleable. The key is to handle them gently and consistently. All snakes vary in temperament and its possible to even get a pyscho captive bred corn that never tames down.

I've kept and still keep plenty of Grey Ratsnakes, all captive born. Never had any attitude problems whatsoever. Not as docile as your average Cornsnake, but close enough. One of my all time favourites.
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I'm Dutch. Somebody shoot me.

Thanks for the input, Kevin and Herman!

I cared for one at the nature center I work at and he was pretty docile...a 7 footer nonetheless.

My grey rat, Russian rat, & my bairdi are my most docile ratsnakes. Never aggressive and always calm when being held. All snakes are individuals, but I'd say most captive born spiloides will grow to be calm, tractable adults.
Steve