Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I want to get a pet snake, but I'll admit I know absoultely nothing. I have turtles, and I have an extra UVB 5.0 striplight, is that what i'll need for a snake? I was thinking of a red rat snake, is a 20 gal long tank large enough for one, at least for the meantime? Also, what are some other types of snakes that are not extremly expensive and good pets? Are there any types of water snakes that are non poisionous to humans? I just don't want to look like a total idiot when I walk into the pet shop to get one, because usually the people there know nothing, and especially about snakes. Thanks in advance! -Chris

I think a red rat (aka corn snake) would be a good first choice. The twenty gallson tank is good but you dont need the light for snakes. I know your here asking for info on them, which is good, but you would be better off getting a book and reading up on them as their is really too much to cover in one thread. The basics however are food, water and shelter. The cage should have bedding (newspaper, aspen, etc.) fresh water, and a hiding spot. Beyond that its up to you to decorate how you see fit. If you have specific questions there are several people here who can help. As for the watersnakes, there are some, but for your first snake I personally wouldnt get one. Good luck.

EP
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Occupants not paying rent:
7 balls
2 corns(normal, candy cane)
1 pueblan milk
1 everglades rat
1 cal. king
1 gray band king
1 w. hognose
1 bearded dragon
2 fish
1 rat
5 cats

Check the link at the top of the page. There are plenty of care sheets to get you started. Here's the Corn Snake link.

http://www.kingsnake.com/rockymountain/RMHPages/RMHnewpage11.htm

Read up on the snakes you're interested in and do some searches on google for more information. Corn Snakes are great starter snakes and there are tons of color and pattern varieties available. When you decide what snake you like best- post some questions and people will help you with the specifics. You're right that a lot of pet shops don't know much about the animals they sell, so you should do you're research first! Also, there are many breeders that sell in the classifieds on Kingsnake so you may want to check out some prices before you decide to buy in a shop.
Lora

alright...thanks!