Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Just Curious...
Okeetees are my still my favorite...i was going to add an 03 to my collection BUT wanted input on what the experienced breeders think about selecting a keeper, or one that you would hold back for breeding. As hatchlings, they all kind of look the same until after several sheds...so is there any way to tell which ones will be real beauties; or differentiate the ones with little or no black blemish lines down their backs, or which ones will have more orange/yellow color & thicker outlining black patterns. I know seeing the parents helps, but what if both parents are awesome...does it ensure that all offspring will be nice too? LET ME KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS...PICS are WELCOME TOO...

Well, first get a look at the parent stock. Do not minimize this. Nothing is more telling than a look at the momma! Second, I won't touch anything that isn't Jasper County lines. A lot of snakes sell for Okeetees, that are actually crosses that are het for all kinds of traits, and may not have a drop of pure Okeetee blood in their veins.
Look at the pattern. You really can see it. It won't give you much of an idea of how bright the animal will be or black border witdth. But if the blotches run into each other, it's not going to be a cleanly patterened animal.
Here's a pic of my fave breeder gal.

Where did you get your Okeetee?
Who is working with ONLY Jasper county corn corns?
most okeetees today are not area specific but more of a color phase selectively bred to bring out the desireable colorations and deep black borders.
curious
-----
Jimmy (draybar)

Could someone post a picture showing a normal corn and a okeetee together? I honestly can't see a dif between the two as hatchlings...
thank you
Kristy