News: 2 die in rock python attack

[reptileexperts]

Here is my exact statements in quotes from the interview that happened a lot quicker than expected - maybe so I wouldn't have time to brush up? Anyways I mentioned the facts in regards to the questions. If its misquoted here is the quote for everyone to see and when it releases tomorrow ill try and get a link to the online version. Cheers,

"African Rock Pythons, Python sebae, are typically aggressive in wild caught individuals, or captive bred specimens who receive little to no handling. Not all specimens are like this though, many will calm over time if raised from a young snake with proper care and handling.

African rocks were a fairly common sight in pet stores during the first decade of 2000, but have since become less kept. This is due to the fact that many wild caught imports were still being sold - which were aggressive - and the captive born hatchlings that were being sold were simply growing too large for most keepers who did not realize exactly what they were getting into. In current day - the US has added Python sebae to the injurious wildlife list of the Lacey act, effectively prohibiting it from interstate transportation, in or out. This also forbids the ability for these snakes to be brought into the states (no more wild caught species at least) but still allows direct exportation of animals out of the states to other countries (Germany, Japan, UK, etc). On top of the federal law that is in place, state laws also effect this with new laws going into place making it more difficult on keepers. Texas has a simple permit process which is essentially a registration fee. Ohio requires very strict insurance to be purchased as well as permits. Florida basically forbids them from ownership outside of snakes that were already owned prior to the laws being placed. Thus, pet store appeal has dropped to near nothing with the exception of specialized exotic shops.

African Rocks need large caging, experienced handlers (those who have at least dealt with large constrictors) and large food items. They are not something to be kept by everyone, but they are something that can be kept by a responsible keeper who knows exactly what they are getting into. As with most giant constrictors (Burmese, Reticulated Pythons, and Anacondas) African rocks exhibit a trait known as feeding aggression which essentially is a response for food when a cage is opened. While this aggression usually leaves the snake once it is out of the cage and realizes there is no food being given. It is a dangerous moment for the keeper who initially opens the enclosure. Enclosure for an African rock adult need to usually be custom made or custom ordered through a company who specializes in giant caging. A female will need at least a 6' by 3' floor space in her enclosure (most would argue at least an 8' by 3') and a male would also need at least a 4' by 3' (again, preferably 6' by 3'). These cages do not come cheap and will need to be able to handle a giant constrictor who can push their way through a weak side. Food for an adult will range from 3-8 pound rabbits, or a few adult chickens, or even pigs for some of the larger spectrum females. For safety concern, at least 2 people should also always be present when feeding, handling, cleaning, or in any way simply opening the cage to an adult African rock python.

Again, African rocks from wild caught origin are known for their extremely aggressive behavior. These, much like their captive born counter parts, can and will calm with regular interactions between them and their keeper. A snake that is left in its cage with feeding being the only interaction it receives, will typically stay on the aggressive side. It is up to the keeper to raise a calm snake. Tame, African Rocks are just as docile as Burmese, and Reticulated Pythons. But it does take effort, just like any other giant species."



Cheers,


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