Reptile & Amphibian Forums

While I have mulled over getting a pair of red hypo's from Mr.Cherry I now have a accidently adopted 18 plus year old gopher snake.I know this 20 long is to dang small to keep him in and Im working on that.Im assuming aspen will work as substrate,and keeping him between 75-80 degrees will work also.I have noticed he doesnt curl up like all my other snakes do.Is this normal?He kinda just lays like a thin u. I have no idea what to use as a hide.Im also feeding him rat pups which he just seem to push to a corner then swallow.I dont want to overfeed the old man so what would be a good schedule for him?I normally do insane amounts of research before I purchase any snake. He was sent accidently to me and the thought of shipping the old man back just seems like a bad idea for the poor guy.Thank you all for helping...Paul

Actually the tank looks fine as far as his size. As far as a hide box, take any opaque container and cut a hole in it and he will use it, the half log you have in there looks to be a little small. Many times I have used cardboard boxes, they work great when in a pinch and are disposable and cheap. Remember what they are looking for is security.

As far as feeding, feed him once per week and watch his weight if he starts getting fat cut him back, obesity is his worse enemy as he ages. Geriatric snakes are neat to work with in that not much bothers them and you will be amazed how well he does for you.

Sorry to have lost a customer, but it looks like you made a neat substitution.

Good Luck

John Cherry
Cherryville Farms

Cherryville Farms - Reptiles

You didnt lose a customer.Im just gaining a little hands on experience...Paul.