Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Greetings...

Last year I purchased a 'chameleon tank' on clearance ($45) as I have always been fascinated by them. However, after some research on the challenges of keeping a chameleon I decided that it was probably not the wisest choice for a beginner's first time. So I decided to look at 'alternative' pets. I finally decided on a small snake, preferbly one that is arboreal or semi-arboreal as the chameleon tank provides a tremendous amount of vertical viewing space.

The specs are as follows: W:30" x H:24" x D:12". This is a glas tank/aquarium with a mesh top and mesh sides.

So I did a bit of research. And from what I've read a "Corn snake" seems to be the best choice for me. They are described as a fairly active, docile, snake that can be handled and is not prone to biting. And I read are often semi-arboreal, enjoying a rest in the branches. In the next couple weeks I plan on purchasing a small snake. So now I am reasearching what I need to properly take care of said creature.

So i've got a list of questions:

1) are the mesh sides a problem with a snake (in other words would a corn snake bite his way out? i figured if it is enough to keep a chameleon and I've seen many lizards in just a mesh cage that all should be fine...but I wanted confirmation).

2) Heating/lighting care. What is best? heat rock, light, both? Now am I correct in my understanding that I will need some sort of light for vitamin D3 conversion?

3) Handling....okay, let's be straight up. This is a snake. Snakes are known for fangs. The instinctual thought in man is that snakes bite! But I've seen many a persons handle them unharmed. So my intellectual side tells my instinctual side..."it's possible". So I'll just have to get over the barrier. But how does one "pick up the snake" from the tank? I've seen snakes on metal hook-like things. Is this something I should get? At least in the beginning? Somehow just reaching my hand in on a snake who just met me and trying to pick him up seems like the easiest way to get bit....

4) Any other advice/tips for a neophyte?

First...Welcome to the fasinating world of snakes (in my book) the best of Herps.

Now...A corn or any other snake will not chew it's way out of a mesh container. However, when they fel less resistance they will push in an effoet to tunnel out. Make sure all sides are secure.

An under tank heater is best. inside heaters can cause burns if there is contact.

Special lighting is unnecessary for most snakes.

All snakes have teeth. So do puppies, kittens and children. They best advice is to remember that and if you are bit you will soon realise that it is no big deal.

The best way to pick up a snake is to just reach in and lift. Hesitation increases the chance of a nip. As it becomes familiar with you, it will tame.

Finally...The best advice is to read about your new animal. Knowledge is the key.

Good Luck.

Frank
-----
"The luxury of not getting involved departed with the last lifeboat Skipper..."

Thanks...

So far, it looks like my options are either:

Corn snake or a baby Carpet Python...

Trying to make a decision here....

The corn snake is more the size I'd probably want, but the carpet python is aboreal. (For which I already have a tank and actually prefer the idea of looking at a snake in the tree branches)

Any thoughts...