Captivity vs. Stimulating Nature

[TTTT]

What do you think?

Should a snake be kept in a large enclosure (so it can roam) with a big basking spot and large soaking pool, stimulating nature? Or is it fine in a snug enclosure (promoting security) with a heat mat and small water dish, if the animal is healthy, sheds fine, and eats on a regular basis?

 

[Bottomfeeder]

Because, you know, nature loves a good stimulation...


This thread is completely and utterly useless unless you were part of the conversation. Fail.

 

[TTTT]

LOL

Just realized I wrote stimulation this whole time instead of simulation

 

[gigas12]

Hi,stimulation would be best!

 

[knifegill]

I like stimulation.

 

[ceeej31]

im not saying that stimulation is absolutely necessary, but i strongly prefer to have it that way with with my animals

 

[Industrial]

I haven't had snakes since I was old enough to realize reptiles' feelings, but thinking about it now I would never want a snake that doesn't have enough room to have different areas of the tank. To me it's almost like a 12" fish in a 55 gallon tank.

 

[snakeguy101]

I definitely prefer naturalistic enclosures but I voted otherwise because if the animal is kept healthy then it is fine.

 

[Bottomfeeder]

^^So are you for or against stimulation?

 

[Toby_H]

I definitely prefer natural stimulation over having my pets stimulate me... that's just freaky...


I much prefer a naturalistic enclosure as it makes the enclosure a more attractive display case for the animal. I not only love animals but I love nature and I highly appreciate having a little piece of nature in my home. Vivariums have quickly become my favorite display cages...

I do not think it is "wrong" to house an animal in an enclosure that 'only' meets it's needs provided it does meet it's needs. But I think it shows a little something when the pet owner is willing to take that extra step for the animal and attempt to replicate it's native environment to some degree.


PS - I did not vote as my opinion was in the middle of the two options. The options offered seemed to be one extreme or the other with nothing in the middle to choose from.