Need suggestions for what snake to get next!

[voodoolamb]

I need another snake. We've all said that at one point haven't we? But I'm not sure what species would be the best bet for me. I thought that if I shared my short list of wants, that maybe you kind bp-neters could point me in the right direction to what I should research.

1.) Fairly docile. I don't fancy getting struck at.

2.) Bigger than a BP. I'd really like something that can eat retired breeding rats. Not too big though. Something 1 person can handle.

3.) Be a good display animal. I don't want the next one in a rack. I'd like to do a large naturalistic terrarium. I'd occasionally like to see the snake.

Any suggestions?

[EL-Ziggy]

A carpet python fits the bill perfectly. There beautiful display snakes, they eat well, not too big, and the husbandry is pretty simple. You really can't lose with the Morelia species.

[Reinz]

I agree with Ziggy 100%, I think a Carpet Python would be perfect for your criteria.

Some Cliff notes on a few:

Irian Jayas are the smallest, averaging 5-6 feet in length.

Jungles seem to be the most arboreal of the semi-arboreal Carpets as a whole. They average 5-7 feet long.

Coastal carpets are the largest and longest at 7-9 feet.

There are more, but this gives you an idea on size.


Lizzy, Coastal


Lizzy


Etta, Coastal


Mack, Coastal


Mack

Here's how mine turned out:

My 2010 Female Coastal is 7.5-8 ft.

My 2013 Male Coastal is 6.5-7 ft. Growing has slowed down.

My 2013 Female Coastal is 6 ft. " " " "

My 2014 Female Jungle is 5 ft. Still growing


Esmarelda, Jungle


Esmarelda


All of my Carpets give me the most viewing pleasure of my snakes with the Jungle being the most fun to watch since she is the most active and most arboreal.


If you decide to get a Carpet, I strongly recommend getting this book chocked full of great information with plenty of photos.



Sometimes their faces can be intimidating, I call it the gangster smile. But all of mine are sweethearts.