Late last fall I acquired a small adult pair of shinisaurus from a German source by way of Diamond Reptile. After spending a very cool winter in my southern california garage, the pair has recently started to be much more active and eating with greater frequency. Last night for the first time I witnessed a breeding display by the male. He began with a series of head bobs and "push ups" all while compressing his body to give a bigger profile. The female rushed over to the rock he was on and stood high on her front legs getting as much elevation as possible. The male continued with his display for several minutes until the female sort of pushed/bumped/bit his neck. They swam to opposite sides of the aquarium and the activity ceased.
From what I've read posted here and several other web site posts it seems the early spring is about normal for most captives to start these displays. From what I can gather, this activity should peak in another few weeks then gradually taper off with babies (if successful) to be expected sometime late fall of this year?
Anyone have anything to add????
As for them eating, they haven't had much but the occaisionsal nightcrawler (warm days only) for the last few months. Now that the days are getting up into the high 70's their appetite is huge! Nightcrawlers, kingworms, waxworms and crickets all taken aggressively. I keep them in a half water/half land 55 gallon aquarium. They are in or above the water (on branches) 95% of the time. The male sometimes hauls out onto the dry side but it's pretty rare.
I just acquired a zoo-bred trio of large adults and have set them up as well. Hopefully with 2.3 shinis, I should have some babies later this year.
All input is welcome as there are so few of these out there it would be nice to see a few responses with any comments or information.
Thanks,
Matt
