Characteristics - This
snake has a very large size potential and an undeserved bad
reputation. Although they usually are more aggressive and alert than
other boids ! They have a very strong feeding response, and if they
are a wild caught snake they will bite more out of fear, which has
contributed to their nasty reputation. Try to purchase captive born
baby Retics if at all possible, they make a much better pet for
obvious reasons.
Requirements - Tropical temperatures of 80-92 degrees and not to
drop below 75 degrees (use a thermometer). The enclosure should
allow the snake to stretch out half of its body length and a width
around a third of the animals length. Enclosure should be free of
sharp edges and easy to clean. You should provide a water bowl (big
enough for the snake to fully submerge itself), a hide box or
shelter for the snake to hide under (in the heated side of the
enclosure), a climbing limb that has been treated, a suitable
substrate ( newspaper, reptile carpeting, paper towels or paper
bags) as the snake may swallow their substrate, use caution when
deciding what to put in their cage. You want to have only one end of
the enclosure heated, so the snake can escape the heat to thermo
regulate itself (or cool itself off ). Overhead heat lamps are best,
you should not ever use a heat rock, the snake will burn itself on
it ! Heat the enclosure for 12 hours then turn of the heat source
for 12 hours. Continuous light and heat will cause stress on the
snake. Be sure the enclosure is escape proof, if there is a way out
the snake will find it !
Diet - Mice, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens and pygmy
goats. Increase the snakes food size as it gets bigger. Should be
fed at least once every 10 to 15 days as young, with adults going
from 3 weeks to months between large meals.
Size and Life Span - Lengths of 16 feet or more are common and
may reach lengths of up to 25 feet in captivity ! May live 25 years
or more in captivity, if properly cared for.
Difficulty Level - ADVANCED- Keeper should have previous
experience with large constrictors and be comfortable with their
care and handling. Not a snake for the first time snake owner !
Handling - You should always support the snakes body and avoid
any fast movements. Try to avoid restraining the snake. Avoid public
situations which may be stressful on the snake. A nervous snake may
occasionally bite, a snake bites for two reasons : 1- they mistake
you for a food source or 2- they are in fear for their safety. Never
handle a snake over 10' alone
!
