Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Yesterday morning I caught the female birthing these babies. These are heteros for albinism. What surprises me is that I have not had the parents together for quite a while because I got a nice litter last December. Is it sperm retention? From what I know, sperm retention has been recorded for up to two years. Anyone know any different? Thanks.

That's awesome Man! Congrats! You have put alot of hard work into those guys, it's great to see you having success. Take care!

Scott

First, congratulations! A friend and I were recently having a discussion on birthing times of So Cal Crotalus (helleri & ruber.) We both agreed we've seen neonates in many different months, from early spring to late fall. This led us to believe that sperm retention is probably utilized more than we think. A year to 2 years could be possible. I'm sure there are a few others on here (Rich G maybe?) that would know the specifics much better. It would make for a facinating study to try and determin the variables and conditions in which the mechanics and timing of the utilization of the sperm occur. This could help explain why Rattlesnakes are still so successful (population wise) in ever shrinking habitats, and within more urban environments. December of last year? That makes for interesting Xmas presents...lol. Were those hets also? Wouldn't mind seeing the contributing parent.

Eimon

Thank you. I posted this picture of the sire last December when the first litter was born. Both the sire and the dam were wild caught as newborns. Both with just the button. I am certain that captivity has had some influence on their cycling, althought, they were both found locally.

I read an account (I'll try to see if I still have it) of a case of seven year sperm retention in a female C. tigris. I believe this is the know record for crotes. I have on a few occasions had both pyros and thayeri lay good eggs two seasons after their last breeding, so I think Dave has a good case of sperm retention. BTW, congrats Dave!

Rich

Thanks for a nice post Rich.

I just checked in Klauber's masterpiece and he mentions about 22 months sperm retention for snakes in general. He does state that fertile eggs were layed by an Indigo after 4 years and 4 months isolation.

Hey Rich, I hope the snake is one with the "good case" of retention. From a fellow guy's perspective, I'd hate to think of a bro with that problem....LOL. Great info though, thanks.

Eimon

now that I have gone back and re-read my post I see I could have worded that a little differently at the end, lol. Too tired after a long day in the field.

np

Congrats. - I have heard of it from year-to-year but not two. I'm sure it is possible as is viable babies from a virgin female.....

Congrats and those are some nice, fat babies! That male is pure SWEETNESS!