Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone. A couple quick questions concerning Black Pinesnakes. Are they comparable to Indigos when it comes to smell, defacation , etc. Are they born black or with a pattern so how do you know how "solid" black they may turn out? I am not a novice herper but am looking for a robust solid black animal just for a pet. I am also looking in to the Blackmilksnake direction but am undecided. Does anyone have any suggestions.
Thanks so much for any help. Steve

Black pines are not born black. They will have some pattern as young but it does become more black as they get older. You can sometimes get them pretty dark as juveniles and they should become very dark. Adults can vary from nearly solid to solid black. As for defecation, I know some indigos can be pretty bad. The pines that I raise for the most part just defecate in the corner but sometimes they can be quite powerful, if you know what I mean.

Scott

Steve,

I have a Black Pine Snake information sheet as well as photos on my website.

Tim

Third Eye

np

"Are they comparable to Indigos when it comes to smell, defacation , etc."

No, indigos have a faster metabolism and are generally more messy. Black pines are like any other large colubrid when it comes to the poop department.

"Are they born black or with a pattern so how do you know how "solid" black they may turn out?"

They are almost always worn with some pattern...usually more so towards the tail. They get darker as they age. If you want a darker animal as an adult ask the breeder to see photos of the parents or pick a hatchling that is darker than the rest.

"I am not a novice herper but am looking for a robust solid black animal just for a pet. I am also looking in to the Blackmilksnake direction but am undecided. Does anyone have any suggestions."

It really depends what you're looking for. Black milks are awesome and are typically docile lap snakes that are easy to care for. They won't be solid black snakes for the first couple years. Black pines usually have more attitude but also more personality IMO. Both are great snakes but if you're looking for a snake that is like an eastern indigo, I'd save up a few more bucks and get the real deal (assuming it is legal to do so in your state)

Good luck,
You can't go wrong with either choice. I've kept and bred black milks and black pines and they are both a pleasure to work with. You can throw Mexican black kings into the mix for another good choice.
Chris

"They are almost always worn with some pattern"

They're also born with some pattern (LOL)
Chris