First snake

[bl00]

I've done all of the prelim research into care and keeping of a snake, and I'm pretty settled on an albino or amelanistic corn snake.

I have two questions for all of the snake keepers out here:

1) As for lighting, what sort of bulb and fixture would be best? I'll be starting out with a 20 long tank for the snake.

2) Is it better to purchase a snake from a local store (not a chain) where I can see it eat and interact with it first, or order from a breeder?

 

[andyjs]

1) I don't think lightning is really that important for corns as much as heating is, but a standard UV tube would serve the purpose of lighting the tank and the UV rays certainly wouldn't hurt.

2) Ordering from a trusted breeder would be fine, but at a local store you can see the animal first hand, see if it appears healthy, and know exactly what you're getting.

 

[logo]

1) I don't think lightning is really that important for corns as much as heating is, but a standard UV tube would serve the purpose of lighting the tank and the UV rays certainly wouldn't hurt.

2) Ordering from a trusted breeder would be fine, but at a local store you can see the animal first hand, see if it appears healthy, and know exactly what you're getting.

 

[ExoticEctotherms]

I prefer working with breeders personally. As you said though, you really don't get a chance to see it first hand before you but it.......unless.......you get one from a reptile show. There are a bunch of reptile shows around the baltimore area and usually you will pay a little less at a show than if you ordered from a breeder through the web or phone.

Here are some show dates for you: http://www.mdreptilefarm.com/shows/md/allmd.asp

Good luck.

 

[andyjs]

I agree about the show. If I was going to get a snake, it would be from a local show.

 

[reptech]

well these days corns are everywhere so if you see one you like and its healthy buy it and make sure you lock down the tank good a tight they are masters of escape

 

[bl00]

Reptech, I'm definitely ordering a set of the clamps when I get all of my accessories too.

 

[evilxyardxgnome]

Is it me, or watching a snake eat first be a bad thing for the sake of the move after the purchase stressing it and making it regurgitate?

 

[bl00]

You bring up a point I've been pondering. I've seen on sites both to not handle them for 48 hours after feeding, but also that you should see a snake eat before you purchase it.
For those experienced, which would be the priority in my situation?

 

[reptech]

Is it me, or watching a snake eat first be a bad thing for the sake of the move after the purchase stressing it and making it regurgitate?

that is a great point