Quote Originally Posted by Mike Cavanaugh View Post
I don't know adam.... I have already read some of the volumes you speak of. For example, probably the holy bible of ball python keeping, Ball Pythons: History, Natural History, Care & Breeding by Dave and Tracey Barker.... Did you know that even the Barkers have been quoted as saying that Ball Pythons can be successfully kept together? Sure they pointed out that it was not recommended for the beginner keeper, and that the snakes needed to be of similar size. They also said that males should not be kept together, and females not yet of breeding size should not be kept together with males... But they said it can be done successfully without issue as many keepers have proven over the years.

What about me? I am in no way shape or form a Barker, but what about my collection? I have females that have been house together for a LONG time! Some of those females SIBLINGS I keep by themselves. They are all growing and thriving just the same. Should I just dismiss my own observations and go only with what some of the pros say?
Mike,

I'm not at all talking about ball python husbandry texts ... I'm talking about academic texts specifically on the subject of animal behavior ... there are hundreds and they're not too difficult to find if you're interested.

As far as your collection ... unfortunately the amount of animals you are working with, the length of time you've kept them, your methods of observation, and your lack of a control group make any findings you have just opinion and not science. And ya know what they say about opinions.

Blessings,

-adam