Fact or Fiction?

[Oliver]

I have two questions that I have seen highly debated around the web, but rather indirectly, so I'd like to put them side-by-side and hear what the lot of you think, and of your experiences. I personally own a hatchling (1 months old) Colombian Red Tail, so it would be great if the answers could be aimed toward them, more or less.

1) Is it true that if one doesn't feed their snake outside of their cage (i.e in a tub with holes), they will get cage aggressive? I was thinking about it, and if this snake ends up being 6-7 feet full grown, then what is it going to be like trying to move him in and out of his cage before and directly after feeding? Don't get me wrong, I don't mind, either way. I'm just wondering.

2) Is it true that mice hold much less nutritional value than rats and will potentially stunt the Red Tail's growth? I've only seen this confirmed on one site about Red Tails, but would like to hear an answer from more than just one source. I have 3 pet rats, and do not want my snake to confuse their smell for food, but what choice do I have but to feed him rats if mice will not sustain him?


On a side note, I just fed my little guy, Oliver, for the first time. He's such a sweet baby; not aggressive at all. I think that this was only his 2nd or 3rd feeding, and I ended up leaving him in his tub to eat the pinkie mouse unattended, then let him crawl out of the tub and back in to his cage after letting him sit for a bit. I hope next week he'll snap for the mouse (or, depending on answers, rat.)

I REALLY prefer not to feed him rats, just because of the softy I am for my own little guys, but if the circle of life aims me in that direction, I reckon I haven't a choice.

IF it is necessary to feed him rats for him to grow properly, should I take any special care, having him and my rats in the same room? Should I move them, or could he get used to the smell without consistently stressing about the possibility of a feeding, or...?

I apologize in advance if I sound ignorant. I am. lol My boyfriend is the reptile nut. I'm the horse person.