Reptile & Amphibian Forums

for adult diamond back water snakes???????????????
thanks
alex

From my experience and what has been told me, either is effective to induce breeding activity in the spring. Hibernation is perhaps more exacting with less tolerance of temperature fluctuation (idealy around 40 degrees F) for an extended period. The one time I did this, I kept 30 plus snakes at 40F for three months with a one month cool down and the same for warm up to peak temperatures. At the end of the cycle and with another month of feeding, pairs where brought together. Breeding was 100% successful.
I was very careful about preparing the snakes for this considering stomach contents, access to fresh water at all times, absolutely minimal disturbance, reduced lighting and a constant vigil on the temperature minimum/maximum. Back-up emergency heating was in place, before starting.
On the other hand, I've cooled my snakes for only a few months allowing the temperature to fluctuate (gradually) between 55 and 65 degrees F. For this they remain in their normal living quarters with reduced light and few interuptions. I did not have compatible male/female pairs for breeding following this shutdown so I can't report on that aspect however, all returned to regular feeding with no evidence of ill affects since.
What is your purpose with regard to either option? I've not seen any "detrimental" affects from continuing to maintain any snakes without a normal winter shutdown.
Michael