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If you saw my two prior posts and link photos, they show my 55-gallon vivarium with overhead heat bulbs. They were used for my former hatchling Miami Corn snake, swapped for my preferred adult Milk snake. (The Corn has a great new home with two other Corns, and I even donated a 30-gallon terrarium with several accessories.) I added a large under-tank heater positioned to maximize heat distribution, and covered the top. Temperatures are adequate now, but my Milk still shows a high tolerance for, and sometimes preference for, cooler temperatures.
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Knowing my preference for active, curious, basking snakes, my friend asked me earlier today if I would have enough patience for this snake, given its shy, secretive nature. My Nelson has only been home a few days, and has remained hidden most of the time, not yet seen climbing nor basking. I said, “yes”, since:

1. He’s not my main display snake; my Hog Island boa constrictor is my main display & handling snake, and he basks often.
2. He will likely be more active after acclimation, and in warmer months.

Moments later, my Milk came out to explore extensively & climb for the first time seen. He was also tolerant of flash photos, allowing several to be taken at close range. I watched his extensive, meticulous exploration of his 55-gallon vivarium. He basked on top branches under the blue, night bulb, at one point crossing five branches at once.

From 18:12 to 20:05 PDT, I documented nearly two hours of exploration, climbing & basking before he climbed down to his preferred hide den behind the rock & bark wall, at the base of the water pool. (His water dish is actually a large, concealed soak pool.)

One of the neat things about keeping an animal of any kind, and learning to relate to it on its terms, is to confirm categorical trends of behavior. Another neat thing is to find that individuals can surprise you with their unique styles & preferences. Just like people.

Sharing experiences and learning from others is why we continue visiting & contributing to this forum. Shine on!

Ameron
Portland/Vancouver

1.0 Boa constrictor imperator (Hog Island)
1.0 Lampropeltis triangulum nelsoni
1.0 Agrionemys horsfieldii kazakhstanica

Flicker link below shows my 55-gallon vivarium & snake photos. Notice the Milk’s trademark incomplete band on the left, third band down from his head.

Link

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