Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I went to the reptile show today and came home with a new 'friend'. He is a tangerine pueblan x honduran milksnake. I just got him for a pet and because he is soo.. pretty. I am wondering why he is a crossbreed? Is there a reason breeders do this or is it usually just an 'oops'? Also, if we did breed him, should it be to a publan, honduran or another mix? Would breeding him be wrong due to the fact he is not pure? Like I said, I just got him as a pet but my husband's mind is going and I am wondering everyone's thoughts on this. THANKS!!!

People intentionally make Hybrids for a few reasons, of course the obvious reason is some are very nice looking. Others do it for the simple reason to prove it can be done. MANY people if not most on this forum are anti-hybrid. The reason for that is especially important using a person like yourself for an example. Your question as what should you breed it too could cause panic as some Hybrids are very difficult to distinguish from pure bred snakes. The next thing you know other people who become interested in breeding snakes get something they think is pure but is indeed a Hybrid. To some people that is being ripped off, and understandably so. I am glad you bought your snake from someone who represented it honestly. At least you know what you have. Back to the what should I breed it too question....the best answer is another hybrid. Especially an Albino. It is my opinion that the Albinos are especially easy to spot when compared to a pure Albino. Please do the right thing and if you do produce babies from your hybrid label ALL the offspring as HYBRIDS no matter what you end up breeding it too, because that is an honest answer. Just so you know, I own Hybrids and love them, they're beautiful animals. But misrepresentation is a very hot topic, and a good way to have people angry at you in the future. I hope you enjoy your new pet. Tom Stevens

I agree with Tom and would suggest keeping it as a pet and buying breeders from a good breeder. I am going to guess you where at the Tampa show. There are a ton of good guys at that show who do Hondos. Terry Dunham of Albino Tricolors, Mike Falcon of Falcon Snake Farms(I think), and John Schmitt of Suncoast Herpetological are three of the best as well as Lee Abbott who has way to much of my money but still no website. LOL If I where you I would go to the fall show or the Daytona show and look up any of the guys I mention and get a pair for breeders. Or if I am wrong about you being in Florida post where you are and someone will be able to point you in the right direction for breeders in your area.

If you do breed your snake it is very important to label ALL babies as what they are.
Thanks Jason

Yea it was at the Tampa show. I met the guy from Albino Tri Color, very nice person! Most likely the milk snake will be a pet and if we did produce any offspring with him we would disclose that they are hybrids, I am VERY against lying or misleading anyone. I don't think we have any room for another critter anyway Thanks for the replys and have a great day!