Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey Everybody
I was wondering if there was any harm in bringing your kingsnakes out into the yard for a little while and let them slither in the grass a bit (UNDER EXTREME SUPERVISION) in the hopes of them defecating outside, thus keeping the cage a bit cleaner? I guess my main concern is them picking up a parasite. On that topic, is it true that a snake rides itself of mites/ticks when it sheds? (though I know they would still be in the tank if the snake was infected)
Thanks a lot for you time.

Sure the would like a little sunshine. He will probably go poking around in the grass making funny jerking motions while trying to find a hide spot.

Rarely would you get parasites from a brief sunning session. Parasites tend to be inside animals, not so much on the ground. (Ticks lay in wait at the edge of bushes, suspended.)

Besides, with mites you can generally tell from a physical examination if they are present.

Take your snakes out! Exercise them!! Let them experience natural sunlight, exercise and variety in food!!!

(Just like you would want, if you were captive.)

Thanks to the both of you for your responses. I'll start bringing them out right away!

When I was a kid I had a young ratsnake that I thought might "enjoy" the time in the yard. I took it out, placed it down on the grass and within a few seconds it had burrowed down into the thatch of the grass and I couldn't get it out and lost it forever.
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Chris Harrison
Does anyone else here think that these scrolling signature lines are stupid?

I'm sorry to hear that. I know I'll be heart broken if that happens. I'll have to be VERY careful. Thanks for sharing.