Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a 40 gallon breeder tank that will soon be empty. Which (as most of you are aware) obviously breaks some sort of herper law.

My problem is that I am unsure what I want to keep in it. This will be a display animal, not a breeder. I'm not looking to spend a fortune on some "super-hypo-zigzag-stripe-and-polka-dotted-chocolate-flavored" morph. I have kept a modest collection of ball pythons, red tails, and tree frogs and would like to get something new.

I also would like it to live out it's adult life in this tank. I could provide it with a smaller setup until it grows large enough for the 40 gallon breeder, but don't really want it to be a species that would require more space than that.

Any suggestions?

Oh, I almost forgot, I am willing to "modify" the tank as needed if a more secure or humid habitat is required for the species you suggest. And, yes, I will carefully weigh the decision and research any snake suggested...(this has to pass clearance with the girlfriend first! )

Thanks, everyone.
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Sometimes, things are exactly as they appear...sometimes.

how about a spotted python...they are easy to care for, very cool snakes and semi arboreal, and would do well in a 40 gallon.

spotted pythons...would they be ok for my 25 gallon high tank? would it use the height? i have a jungle carpet and she is semi arboreal.

My spotted is a very active climber...as long as they had somthing to climb on i am sure it would use it

Childrens or Spotted Pythons would do well in a 40 gallon breeder. I don't know the dimensions, but if it's large enough Brazilian Rainbow Boas or Jungle Carpet Pythons could also do well in it. Generally arboreal pythons are the best display animals (emerald tree boas are an exception), because they sit out in the cage as opposed to hiding (at least the ones I've owned and seen have)

Rat snakes may also be a good choice, but it really depends on the individual if they sit out or hide.
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Current Collection:
0.1 Antherystic elaphe guttata guttata - Corn Snake
1.0 Elaphe vulpina gloydi - Eastern Fox Snake
0.1 Leucistic elaphe obsoleta linheimeri - Texas Ratsnake
1.1 Morelia spilota cheyni - Jungle Carpet Python
0.1 Tiliqua scincoides intermedia - Northern Blue Tongue Skink

The antaresia are great, but not flashy. I guess that it all depends on what you want as a display animal. If you are looking for pattern and color, you might take a look at some of the asian rat snakes. My suggestion is for you and your girlfriend to look at photos in different forums, see what catches your eye, and create a list to work from in making your decision. Good luck!

regards,
althea