Good question...I have tried both, keeping them together multiple days, and also keeping together only for a few hours actual copulating time. I often keep them together for a day or two, then separate and feed them, then reintroduce in a couple days. However, I recently had a scary moment, and a huge male C. couperi who had never shown any agression before seized a female that I had hoped he would breed again...I think with intent to eat her. I quickly separated them...but it was a close call and I did not see it coming. Contrary to what respected breeder R. Bruce reports with his males, I see little reduction in feeding response with my males during the breeding trials...they are usually hungry. I often see quick copulation after introducing a pair, which makes it easy. However, others don't "do it" for days...and then they breed in the middle of the night in the dark. I don't have it all figured out...let me know when you do! Vic