Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've been interested in Gulf Hammock rats for years, but never had one until I got this guy recently. I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised at his personality compared to other young rats I've worked with. He's much more laid back. With the young black rats I've kept, they were usually on the flighty side until they got some size on them. Not so with this kid-he just wants to curl up into a ball if he's feeling timid.

That doesn't last though-he's very active and curious.

I was surprised he had so much yellow coloration though. I'm hopeful that will fade as he grows since I've always been a big fan of the light gray individuals I've seen. We'll see how that goes as he puts on size but I do like how conspicuous his stripes are for his size. Is anyone on here currently breeding these other than Steve G? I'd love to see pics of others if anyone feels like sharing.

Very nice Kevin!

Yes, it will be interesting to see how it matures!

~Doug
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"a snake in the grass is a GOOD thing"

my website -Serpentine Specialties

Fun stuff. Please update as he morphs out.
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See all my snakes at SerpenTrack.com

Very nice animal, Kevin.
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Like all RSs there are exceptions to the rules, but I would agree that even wild GH variants tend to be gentle.
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Yellow in them usually comes from two sources:
1…Contrived, intentionally or not, in breeding colonies where some Yellow Rat genes were introduced (often to transfer a mutant morph gene from one strain to another.)
2… Comes from wild stock from the eastern and southern edge of their “range” (which is fuzzy at best.)
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It’s been my experience that the yellow never fades, sometimes doesn’t get stronger, more often does. I would be happy to be wrong on yours. Keep us posted with pics as it grows.
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WC Male
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This male’s Granddaughter:
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A subtle touch of yellow can be kind of nice.
This animal is the great grandson of the first, but his mother of more eastern range genes, so it has a quiet yellowish/beige look.
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Regards, Bill McGighan

Thanks Bill. That last one is nice-very unique looking.

I agree that a touch of yellow isn't a bad thing. Nice animals! - Mike