problem/questions

[dmaricle]

ok we have 7 snakes now so we decided to start breeding rats. ok so i built a rack bought a male from the reptile store( they only have males) and then bought 3 fancy rats from pet smart( they only have females). now my problem is they have been together for like 3 weks give or take a few days, and when i look at the females they dont look prego at all the male is huge and they seem to get along well. i kept them in an insulated office and it did not get to hot but just in case i moved them into a spare room in my house just to make them more comfortable. i may be just rushing things but i dont know what do yall think i should do?

[Argentra]

Ok, hate to say it, but the rats from Petsmarts are often not in the best of health...and can often be retired breeders if they're already full grown.

The best thing to do when starting a colony is to get weanling rats and raise them up to breeding size (@250g). That way, you know you're getting healthy young rats that will give you the best production.

[dmaricle]

is there a place i can order live rats to start a new colony with.

[dmaricle]

also when will they start showing if they are pregnant. i will prob give them a couple more weeks before they become food.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

They can too old, your male since you only have one could be infertile etc.

The best is to get young females (small rats) and raise them up until they reach 250 grams and than pair them.

Having a second male as a back up might be a good idea as well. (same thing get a young animal)

[dmaricle]

where can i order live rats.

[Argentra]

Look around for reptile specialty stores that sell feeder rodents. Make sure they are good quality and pick out some nice weaned rats.

You could also ask here on the forums. I'm sure there are others in your area that breed their own rats that you could get a few from to start your own group.

[dmaricle]

ok i'll do that thanks

[stangs13]

I noticed your in LA. PM/Email Tim bailey, his forum handle is muddoc . He can probably hook you up with some rats. His site is www.baileyreptiles.com

[Argentra]

Ack! Tim! Of course... I KNEW there was someone significant in Louisiana.

He would be excellent to contact, he's a great guy.