Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have several turtles and lizards, and have been very interested in getting a snake for some time now. Im just trying to decide on what first snake to get. I like the GBK snakes and the Cali kingsnakes the best.

So is the GBK snake a good first snake? Are they docile when it comes to handling, and how big do they get?

Thanks.

Of Course, you are in the Gray-Banded Forums.
A Cali kingsnake might have the tendency to musk when handled. It takes em a few months to settle down to handling and stop musking. And even that is not for sure.
Where as the GBK DOES NOT MUSK!! Which in turn means that you don't stink after you handle them, and their homw won't smell like musk.
Oh, and did I mention the Great disposition of GBK's? And their Great size?
Good luck choosing. Post pics when ya do.
Keith K.

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Krazy-K
1.0 Gray Banded Kingsnake
0.2 Thayeri Kingsnakes
1 B. Rainbow Boa
1.0 Bearded Dragon
2.0 Leopard Geckos

If you decide to get one as your first snake make sure you get one that is feeding. They can be tricky to get started, and nothing discourages new snakekeepers like a non-feeding snake. At least that's what I've gathered from reading these forums. Other than that, gray bands rule. Whenever we have children over who have never handled a snake, I always pull out a gray band first.

I have both a Gray-band and a Cal King. They are both great snakes but I have to say, I prefer my Gray-band. He is very mellow and fun to watch. As mentioned, make sure you get a feeding history before you buy one. I suggest you don't bother if the animal hasn't fed on pinkies. When I got mine, I made sure of the feeding history and he has been very easy to care for.