Many captive snakes, such as boas, pythons, kingsnakes and milk snakes, live sedentary lifestyles. Most of their time is spent in the safety of hide boxes or buried under substrate. In captivity there is no need for them to hunt for food or feel concerned about predators. They seem to relax and take their captive lifestyle in stride. This isn’t exactly a bad thing. It’s one reason snakes are excellent low-maintenance pets.
As an alternative, snakekeepers may want to consider the Russian rat snake (Elaphe schrencki schrencki). Growing to a significant size, this subspecies has a strong inclination to climb. The snakes make fascinating display animals, especially when kept in a seminatural vivarium. They don’t mind hanging out in plain sight, and they exhibit an awareness of their surroundings that’s a refreshing change from many other popular snakes. Many snakekeepers would say they have personality.
Want to read the full story? Pick up the February 2010 issue of REPTILES, or subscribe to get 12 months of articles just like this.
