New snake for newb?

If you want a Boa, get a Boa. They can get big, but it will take 3-5 years for it to get big.

Not really much point in starting with a smaller snake if you will get all the experience that you need just by raising a Boa from a baby.

For something a bit smaller and even more docile than a BCC, check out a Dumerils Boa

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by S8k

Hi all,

I am considering my first snake and was wondering what was the consensus on a breed that would make a great house pet.

I’d really like an animal that is friendly and like to be handled, within reason or course.

After researching online a bit, looking at care and temperament my short list probably includes the usual suspects.

I like a Western Hognose as they look like they would be interesting with all of their defense mechanisms. The Kenyan Sand Boa as they seem like a good beginner snake.
I am partial to the Redtail Boa, even though I know they can get big, I’d get a male but had read that they can be friendly.

A Ball seems nice and everyone seems to like them though they can be finicky eaters.

Also, what does everyone think about adopting a snake from the shelters? Is this a good idea or a recipe for anxiety?

Lastly, is it better to get a young snake or an older one? Do they bond more when raised from hatchling?


Thanks,

S8k

---

Probably won't be a "consensus" here, as we all like different things- that's fine, there are many great choices. You will probably take the best care of the snake
that appeals the most to YOU. Remember that snakes can live a long time, so it's an important decision for sure. You should consider the needs of the snake
first though: can you meet any special needs? For example, some snakes require very warm temperatures, while others cannot thrive above certain temperatures-
so think about where you live & how warm or cool you keep your house....it's a commitment. For those that get large, remember that increases the cost of their food
& housing too...make sure your new pet fits your budget & don't forget to allow for unexpected medical care.

Snakes that are just born or hatched are delicate & best suited to keepers with experience. Once they have a well-established feeding record, they are a much better
bet for a new keeper, as are young adult snakes. Avoid wild-caught snakes, they can have health challenges not typically found in captive-bred snakes. As far as
adopting a snake from a rescue, that can go either way, depending on the rescue (how skilled they are and how willing to share the true background of each animal).
I wouldn't hesitate to adopt from a rescue that has taken good care of a snake that needed help...for the most part, they make sure they are healthy before they re-
home them. As with dogs & cats, good shelters make sure their animals connect with the "right" owner before they allow adoption. If it's a good shelter, the snake
you adopt may actually have had better medical care than some others you might buy without such professional assessment.

I would personally not recommend a hognose as a first snake, nor a ball python...both can be challenging (fussy feeders) that can be discouraging, but it's still up to
you. I happen to love all sorts of rat snakes, & if you want a docile snake that's easy to feed & care for, I can think of no better choices than corn snakes, Trans Pecos
or Baird's rat snakes. Even rat snakes that get larger don't have near the body weight of a boa. Another great option is an Australian "spotted python"- they stay
small, about 3-4' but their personality is quite "large"...as is their feeding response, and they handle beautifully & since they need warmer temperatures than corn
snakes (for example), there is less risk of them over-heating when we hold them for a while.

That's a great question about a young snake "bonding" more with their owner...I've taken in snakes of ALL ages, & there is nothing more satisfying than seeing a snake
that has been neglected or mistreated realize that, under my care, that it can relax, feel safe & thrive. That's all the bond you can ask for, so no, I don't think age
really matters.

OP, S8k, any thoughts? You've been pretty quiet since asking your question on a new addition.