I agree it's a lot of questions. I know there are many methods used. I think the basis of all the questions, and the wish that there would be some research, is to know the bare bones requirements for successful breeding.

Some breeders likely concern themselves with unnecessary concerns. Many say that it's not necessary for dropping temps. If it's not necessary, that's an unneeded concern a breeder might be having.

Some concern themselves with light cycle. Others don't. It then seems that's also unnecessary.

Some pair the snakes until the female lays. Again, likely not necessary, obviously we want the best odds, so the more locks, the better chance of babies...

Some are saying "burping" the tub is unnecessary. Is it only necessary in the last couple weeks? Again, I'm just wondering about the bare bones necessity of all the different methods, hearsay, suspicions, etc., for successful breeding.

One big question I have is about the beginning of breeding season. Can I start a breeding season in March by lowering temps as many do starting in October (in the Northern hemisphere)? Basically, through artificial environments, can I get most my females to lay in August-October instead of March-May? And if so, what's the benefit of waiting until a breeding season?

If it's difficult to do that, that makes me think there's more to the barometric pressure, or stormy season type effect than anything else...just thoughts I guess...

In the end, I think it would probably be cost prohibitive for any breeders to set up such experiments that would lead to actual answers to these things.