Biology of snake breeding

I've never studied reptiles, or snakes for that matter, in regards to the biology of their breeding. I've read through Markus and Jayne's breeding steps many times but they don't necessarily state what happens in each step. I was just wondering if someone could list the biological steps that happen and what exactly they mean...


Also, what are 'follicles' exactly? Are they developing prior to being locked with a male or are they the result of locking with a male? And when the female ovulates, does that mean that the eggs have become 'egg-like' inside her?

Thanks all! :)

Follicles are immature eggs that the female produces when triggered by environmental changes as well as sexual activity.

Ovulation is the process in which the sperm fertilizes the once immature eggs that have now transported thru the fallopian tubes. once this process happens, your female is done. she will not need to breed anymore. there are several steps and scientific explanations for the biological process of these steps and what happens in between these steps. unfortunately ... thats an entire book of wealth lol. but the information is out there if you want to learn more about it.

Thanks Tyler! Much appreciated!

So do your females produce a smaller number of follicles than a larger and older female? Or is the number of potentially fertilized eggs absolutely random?

thats a really good question Mitch, I have no proof or have seen no proof to prove either way.. but I have seen smaller females 1200-1300 grams throw 5-8 egg clutches. and I have seen 1600-2000 gram females throw 8-10+ egg clutches. I would definately say that age has an impact on how many follicles are produced. but I would also say that it is fairly random within some sort of median/age calculation???? I mean.. ive seen huge girls throw a clutch of 2-3 eggs lol. so if it is dependant on something, its not JUST completely age/weight.

your question kinda has my mind racing now lol, it would be cool to have some scientific proof on this subject. but... if someone on the street asked me this question, and didnt need an elaborate anwser. I would say Random, with some sort of dependancy on age/weight (cuzz ur not gunna have a 1200 gram female throw u 12 eggs)

Hope this helps

Mitch,

I had "favorited" this thread back from 2005 on the "mechanics of breeding" that you may find interesting.

http://www.ball-pythons.net/forums/s...ad.php?t=24970

La ringrazio molto amico!

Super helpful as always Robin!