Reptile & Amphibian Forums

This group of snakes has always fascinated me since I first started "getting into" these animals. I currently maintain a large collection of snakes, most of which are venomous, but I do have a few pythons (retics and macklot's). I've been thinking more and more about getting an eastern indigo for quite some time now, and since I'm thinning down my collection a bit to make room for my retic project I think the near future might be a good time to do this. I know there are laws regarding this species, which is something I wanted to ask about. You must have the proper permit to bring in an indigo from out of state right? For those of you who have this permit, how difficult/expensive was it to acquire? How long did it take you to get it? I know the site easternindigos.com had information about it, but for some reason I can't get my computer to pull it up (is it gone?). I know Dean A. breeds this species, what others out there do and may have offspring this coming season? Have you noticed anything different between males and females, other than size? (I'm assuming like most snakes, female get larger).

I don't know what it is about these snakes. Some of the pictures I've seen of people handling adult indigos have just floored me. Also, the natural docility is amazing as well. All that makes them quite interesting to me. I haven't decided for sure that I'm going to try to get one, and who knows, I may just get a BT cribo to get a bit of the Dry. experience before taking the major plunge. Even these snakes though don't seem to be offered all that frequently. Anyway, thanks for any help and information anyone can give me.
-Chance Duncan
River Valley Snakes

Sounds like you are the perfect candidate for an eastern indigo! Dean does produce eastern as do myself and quite a few others who frequent this forum (you can get a complete list at indigosnakes.com). Unlike many other snakes, except rattlesnakes and a few others, male indigos get MUCH larger than females. Temperment is about the same....both exceptionally dociel (except during feeding time!). Permits can be somewhat of a pain but if you start early, it really isn't all that bad. The fee is $25 per permit and expect it to take 60-90 days. Depending on where you live, you may also need a state endangered species permit from the DNR (like here in Illinois). Hope this helps. Rob