Other pets (pics and discussions)

[ConcinusMan]

Don't fall in love with the food Emily!

http://oi45.tinypic.com/mkj037.jpg</a> (http://oi45.tinypic.com/mkj037.jpg)

[Charis]

In my experience, guppies can survive in a jar of water for a long time as long as you change the water every few days, I've even had them breed in conditions like that. But they will thrive in a proper tank with a filter and bubbler.

[guidofatherof5]

*Tank Update*

I just put Tank (Chelydra serpentina-common snapping turtle) on the scale and he is now over 18 lbs. 18.21 pounds on an empty stomach. Wow. Tanks growth rate is phenomenal. This kind of weight is usually seen in turtles 10 years old. Tank just turned 4. Carapace length is right in line with his weight so all is good.
Way-to-go Tank.

[ConcinusMan]

This kind of weight is usually seen in turtles 10 years old.

Yeah, wild turtles, with tapeworms.

[guidofatherof5]

Yeah, wild turtles, with tapeworms.

Oh, then never mind.
Bad Tank, bad Tank.:D

[ConcinusMan]

I meant, that reaching that weight wouldn't take until age 10, for a spoiled rotten turtle with no tapeworms.;)

[Invisible Snake]

They said at Petco if you change the water every week, they will be ok, and that they don't produce alot of waste. But aslo this was Petco......It sounds like it might just be easier to get the filter, even if that is the case, and I'll go ahead and get an air thing.

What've I gotten myself into....:rolleyes:

Look on the bright side, if you get a couple more adults you can start breeding them and produce free feeders for your garters! :D

[guidofatherof5]

I meant, that reaching that weight wouldn't take until age 10, for a spoiled rotten turtle with no tapeworms.;)

I knew that. Just joking with you.;)
Let me tell you about this so-called spoiled turtle. He only had a 6 oz steak and only 8 med. shrimp for dinner. Poor starved turtle.:D

[ConcinusMan]

Good lawd. I'm having chili dogs. Hey Tank. Wanna trade?

[-MARWOLAETH-]

No pics of Tank!!?? I feel cheated. Bad Steve:mad:
(Lol jk)

[ProXimuS]

Man, Steve, how does Tank make it over there....:p


Invisible Snake, I was kinda thinking that...Not sure if these ones I have are males or females or what, so maybe they will breed. We'll see...But that would be a whole nother rigamarole I don't really wanna deal with:rolleyes: But I will if it happens. I went and got them a filter. I forgot about this cool place near by that specializes in fish only, so I went there and talked to the lady, and she suggested a filter that filters the water, and while it does that, it makes bubbles, so it's aerating it as well. The fish seem to actually really like it. Right when I turned it on, they went to it, and the water was blowing them all over the place, and then they come right back to it:p

[ConcinusMan]

she suggested a filter that filters the water, and while it does that, it makes bubbles, so it's aerating it as well.

Well of course. To minimize the turbulence and aerate better, you can stick a tube on the discharge end, and add a large air stone to the end of that, and lay it on the bottom. That will make a wall of tiny bubbles, like this:

http://i01.i.aliimg.com/img/pb/177/890/105/105890177_104.jpg

[ProXimuS]

WOO! I almost had a heart attack! After just getting that filter all setup and adjusted and so on and so forth, I come out here, and just now I hear a clang from my room(where the fish are at) so I ruuuun in there, and it's my roommates cat....Little fart monster snuck in there.....

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^This guy^

Fish are ok...don't know what he was doing....*shakes fist*

Edit: I saw those air stones, and actually wanted to get one, but I think I'll have to wait till next paycheck. I read they were good for really small fish.

[Invisible Snake]

WOO! I almost had a heart attack! After jsut getting that filter all setup and adjusted and so on and so forth, I come out here, and just now I hear a clang from my room(where the fish are at) so I ruuuun in there, and it's my roommates cat....Little fart monster snuck in there.....

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^This guy^

Fish are ok...don't know what he was doing....*shakes fist*

Cute cat, are those his real eyes, yellow and green?

[ConcinusMan]

I think they're just yellow. The blue part is black on all animals except for albinos. The blue is just reflected light from the flash. While humans get "red eye" effect, most animals produce a blue, green, or yellow/orange reflection.

[ProXimuS]

Yea, his eyes are just yellow(with of course the black pupil). His name is Batman:cool: (He's such a girl:p)

[ProXimuS]

One of my fishies died today:( It was the only pretty one too. I was able to get a good picture of him though since I got him out. (Yes, I used a spoon, I had nothing else.....ick......)

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He was really even more rainbow in real life.

[tress29]

I've used my feeding tongs to grab dead shrimp and wilty plants.

[ConcinusMan]

http://i45.tinypic.com/zmjotj.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2dumurb.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/14o14c7.jpg

[Madame_Mel]

These are my clawed frogs, Cookies and Cream. Got them as froglets...they're still under 8 months old. They're BFFs.

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[ConcinusMan]

hahaha, fun names. They're illegal here but somehow the pet stores get away with selling albinos by calling them "albino domesticated frog" :rolleyes:

I said to the clerk at one store "hey aren't those just clawed..." and he cut me off and said "ssshhhh" with a wink.

[d_virginiana]

Haha, they look like they *really* like each other :rolleyes:
My friend used to have a couple that would just try and bite each others' legs off constantly.

[d_virginiana]

"albino domesticated frog" :rolleyes:

That sounds like a legit animal.

[Madame_Mel]

yea even worse when evil walmarts sell them as dwarf frogs..and then they tell people they only need a 3 gallon tank.

they do really like each other but I am almost positive they are both female.. :)

[ConcinusMan]

There are dwarf frogs. They look the same, but not the same animal. They stay tiny and it's true. A 1 gallon tank will do just fine for up to 3 of them. They don't even require filtration/oxygenation. I've seen them thrive for years in very small desktop tanks in offices and whatnot, with a few live aquatic plants, some gravel, and that's it. My vet has them on their reception desk. Said they have had them for 5 years in that tank.

Dwarf frogs are legal here. Clawed frogs (they get much bigger) are not.

[ConcinusMan]

they do really like each other but I am almost positive they are both female.. :)

I think they are known to reproduce by parthenogenesis so all the offspring would be female ;)

[Madame_Mel]

I also have an african dwarf frog I keep with my guppies, tetras and corys in a 30 gallon. Her name is Merp and she does very well in that environment...but there is a clear difference between the two species and they have much different husbandry needs. I had no idea clawed frogs were illegal in some states. I suppose they would affect ecosystems negatively if they were accidentally (or purposefully) released.

[ConcinusMan]

They already have, in California. That led to their ban in CA, OR, WA and other states. A single released female is all it takes to populate an area.

[Madame_Mel]

I think they are known to reproduce by parthenogenesis so all the offspring would be female ;)

Oh man, I hope they don't reproduce by parthenogenesis! I work at an aquarium and met a group of scientists, one specifically was from Australia who was doing research on that subject...specifically with bamboo sharks and clawed frogs...but I'll believe it when I see it.

[ConcinusMan]

They will, under the "perfect" conditions and in the absence of a male. No biggie, you don't have to let the eggs hatch.

[Madame_Mel]

so far I have seen no eggs. Plus, I am pretty sure these fatsos would just eat them. That's just my theory of course I could be wrong.

[ProXimuS]

Cute doggies Richard:) What is the black and white one?

Also cute froggies Mel! I really like the albino:D

I had to look up the word parthenogenesis and one of the first things that came up was "Parthenogenesis in Humans" :rolleyes:

[ConcinusMan]

What is the black and white one?

4 year old long-haired chihuahua.

Not mine, but here's another example of his type:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/images14/chihuahuaLongBlackPapino.JPG

[ProXimuS]

I'm quite familiar with long haired Chihuahuas, as I work in dog grooming. I just wasn't sure with the way she as laying, could've been a little mix. Very cute:)

[ConcinusMan]

could've been a little mix. Very cute:)

That's what we thought until I scanned his chip at the vet. He's a registered purebred. He came from the Oregon Humane society, then the people that got him from there basically abandoned him, then I got him. He's a good dog but nobody bothered to care for him properly or train him. Took a year for me to potty train him. He isn't a bad dog, just had a series of bad owners. At first he was very timid and hand-shy but he's over that now.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Nice dog Richard. My cousin has a short haired one,but she looks like a mutated rat :p And it cost £600 :eek:

[ConcinusMan]

Thanks. Yeah, the breed really doesn't have a strict standard. They come in a range of sizes, coats, etc. and the smaller they get, the more health problems they have. He's pretty big even for his type.

[Charis]

Here is my rat on steroids. She is 4 pounds.
http://i903.photobucket.com/albums/ac238/MaidofChainz/DSCN0550.jpg
http://i903.photobucket.com/albums/ac238/MaidofChainz/DSCN0541.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

No retics for you! :eek:

[ProXimuS]

Aw what a cutie:)

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Here's a pic of my dog that passed away in 2007. The first pic is probably around 2006. The second one is when I was like 7(1997):p She was pretty small for a Pomeranian, she was about 4 pounds.

[d_virginiana]

Here is my rat on steroids. She is 4 pounds.

Our dog, Rumples, doesn't even realize my parents' chihuahua is another dog. I think he thinks she's a squirrel or something.

[Charis]

My little girl is a pocket tyrant! She bullies all of the other dogs in the family and they are all easy going enough to let her. She's especially got my Grandparents' border collie completely cowed. She usually goes and stays with them anytime I have to go somewhere that she can't come. But she is a very good traveler too.

[Steveo]

No retics for you! :eek:

Yeah, they wouldn't be able to digest the collar.

:p

[EasternGirl]

Emily...I still can't believe how much your pom looked like my long haired chihuahua...

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[BLUESIRTALIS]

THIS IS FOR THE DOG LOVERS! I THOUGHT THIS WAS SO FUNNY.

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRjY_rrQMPoYuHHoKGQ7HSaokyLhT5Jb LQU63tn65CoN71LS5E7

[ProXimuS]

Marnie, your little boy is so cute! I love his little sweater:)

I'm also glad you were able to explain to your son about Rattlesnake Roundup. Now if only the adult child would understand.....:p

[ConcinusMan]

Bridget doing her cat routine again. She does this every morning, at nearly the same time, without fail.


http://youtu.be/FBpkWaxtxI0

[ProXimuS]

Awwww! That's adorable:) My dog and my roommates dog do that too, just not with the licking part. They just rub their faces to be cute:p

[guidofatherof5]

Tank (Chelydra serpentina-Common Snapping turtle) woke up this morning after a good nights sleep in his blanket. He went into his water and took care of his turtle business. Then it was out and into Hailee's room and under her bed. He'll rest there most of the day and into the evening. Around 8 pm I'll pound on the living room floor a few times. 5-10 minutes later he'll come out for some water time before bed.
He is a very important member of our family. Hoping to have some big news about Tank in the next few weeks. I'll keep you all posted about that.

[ConcinusMan]

Awwww! That's adorable:) My dog and my roommates dog do that too, just not with the licking part. They just rub their faces to be cute:p

Bridget does that too, when she's in a playful mood. She'll stroke both sides of her muzzle with her front paws (no licking)

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Again no pics of tank.Steve, your slacking:p

[guidofatherof5]

Again no pics of tank.Steve, your slacking:p

I'm not slacking. He's sleeping.:D

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Fair enough

[guidofatherof5]

Winter will soon be upon us here in Iowa and Tank has cycled into his Winter routine. 48 hours sleeping at a time and much less activity. He woke up this morning from a nights sleep in his water and headed to Hailee's room. Here he is resting under her bed.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/resting_tank11.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/good_tank1.jpg

[ProXimuS]

I just love Tanks little face! He always seems to have a little smile on his beak:)


So is that sort of like brumation for a turtle? Does he still eat in his winter phase?

[guidofatherof5]

I just love Tanks little face! He always seems to have a little smile on his beak:)


So is that sort of like brumation for a turtle? Does he still eat in his winter phase?

Yes he does. It's just a slow time for him.

[kueluck]

I'm surprised Tank doesn't have his own web-site, he sure deserves one since most people think snappers are bad turtles.

[guidofatherof5]

I'm surprised Tank doesn't have his own web-site, he sure deserves one since most people think snappers are bad turtles.

There are no bad snapping turtles.
Just misunderstood ones.:D

[Invisible Snake]

Hey just wanted to give a heads up to anyone who has constrictors and a family member who smokes in the home..

Some kid posted in a FB group that he lost half of his bp/royal collection because his parents were heavy smokers and smoked inside the house. Kid said he got a necropsy done on the last snake that died and the cause of death was nicotine overdose. Since constrictors have a slow metabolism the nicotine built up in their systems.

[guidofatherof5]

Poor kid and snakes.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I'm glad nobody in my house smokes fags

[Invisible Snake]

I'm glad nobody in my house smokes fags

Lol :)

[Foxrun402]

That should be common sense though really, if smoking is so harmful it can cause cancer and kill people why would you let anyone do that around your animals? they depend on you! I feel bad for the kid and his snake, because it was his parents that smoked and he probably couldn't change that... Suzi 's door has a no smoking sign on it and nobody is allowed around the door even on the outside if they are smoking... If they want to smoke... they can go outside... rain, sleet, snow, hail, i don't care its not my ciggarette...

[ProXimuS]

Poor snakes:( I don't like it when people smoke in the house with their animals inside. We get dogs in grooming that smell so badly of smoke, that they still smell after their bath....

I will say I do smoke, just not around the "kids."

[guidofatherof5]

Tank got up this afternoon and went to his warm bath that was waiting. Changing the water out after some bathroom time he settled in and eat a 7oz. steak for dinner. Now, he's stretched out in his warm water. What a wonderful turtle.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/tank_face1.jpg

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Oh Tank, you legend:D

[ProXimuS]

Does he eat his steaks raw(I'm assuming)?

[guidofatherof5]

Does he eat his steaks raw(I'm assuming)?

Extra rare:D

[infernalis]

Oh Tank, you legend:D

Indeed he is........

[d_virginiana]

Tank eats better than most college students! Lucky turtle :)

[guidofatherof5]

Tank taught me something tonight, he's not always asking for food.
After a nice nap in Hailee's room he came out to his water and had some more steak for dinner. A short time later I came into the living room and Tank gave me the "I'm hungry " look or so I thought. I looked at him and told he wasn't getting any more food but his stare continued.
It was then I got a whiff of turtle poop. While I scooped out the dirty water Tank moved so I could get the deep end of his enclosure.
After dumping the water I replaced it with fresh warm water. Tank settled in for a nap.

He wanted his water changed and I thought he was begging for food.
He is one smart turtle.

[guidofatherof5]

The Ranch painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) took in some sunbath time this morning.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//821/medium/lazy_day.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

Somehow I wasn't even aware you had painted turtles. The Salmon creek area of Clark Co. WA (Where laterally striped concinnus' and Big Bertha came from) is absolutely infested with them. They practically have to bask on each others backs too, there's so many. Nice thing about the painted's is that you can approach much closer for photos than you can with the Western Pond turtles. You can't get within 50 feet of the latter. They're way too shy.

[ProXimuS]

Tank taught me something tonight, he's not always asking for food.
After a nice nap in Hailee's room he came out to his water and had some more steak for dinner. A short time later I came into the living room and Tank gave me the "I'm hungry " look or so I thought. I looked at him and told he wasn't getting any more food but his stare continued.
It was then I got a whiff of turtle poop. While I scooped out the dirty water Tank moved so I could get the deep end of his enclosure.
After dumping the water I replaced it with fresh warm water. Tank settled in for a nap.

He wanted his water changed and I thought he was begging for food.
He is one smart turtle.

It's his "want" face :p


I also didn't know you had Painted turtles.Actually didn't know you had any turtles other than Tank...What else are you keeping from us Steve?!:p

[guidofatherof5]

Red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
African spurred tortoise (Geochelone sulcata)
Bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps)

[guidofatherof5]

Last Christmas my hopes were Tank would weight 20 lbs by Christmas 2012.
Twenty days until then and Tank weighed in at 19.03 lbs today.
I guess we'll see what happens.
He is such a big boy.

[tress29]

He's had the tortoise since he was 10...

Colin Kaepernick has an enormous pet turtle | Shutdown Corner - Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/colin-kaepernick-enormous-pet-turtle-192405405--nfl.html)

[ProXimuS]

How cool:) Is that an African spurred tortoise too?

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Last Christmas my hopes were Tank would weight 20 lbs by Christmas 2012.
Twenty days until then and Tank weighed in at 19.03 lbs today.
I guess we'll see what happens.
He is such a big boy.Better give him Turkey dinner with all the trimmings =P

[Light of Dae]

Shade has grown up to be such a fine looking dog. :) Still a puppy mind but she listens really well. Just got to figure out how to stop her barking when she is outside, I swear she hears things or thinks she sees something n gets all defensive lol It truly is funny because she is the worst guard dog ever! A complete stranger can walk in our yard n she will greet them with aggressive tail wagging lol
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[guidofatherof5]

Yes, a fine looking K9.

[guidofatherof5]

Here is Tank trying to decide whether to go to bed or not. He decided not to.:D
His front paws are almost as big as my hands.
He is a calm, cool and collected young man.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/thinking_tank.jpg

[mikem]

Haha, that's a great picture :cool:

[-MARWOLAETH-]

How big will his water tub have to be when he's fully grown?

[guidofatherof5]

Big. Probably 75 gal. He's in a 25 gal. right now.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Could they be housed in an outdoor pond in the summer?

[guidofatherof5]

Could they be housed in an outdoor pond in the summer?


Nope. He's not allowed outside without adult supervision.
They are climbing and digging machines and do a lot of moving during the night.

[ProXimuS]

Climbing?!

[guidofatherof5]

Tank just got up and went to his water. Once in his water he gave me the hungry look. He is scheduled to eat today so I headed to the kitchen to cut his steak up. I looked around the corner and saw Tank peeking out the corner of his opening. He only had enough of his head out so one eye could keep an eye on the kitchen. When I came around the corner with his plate he started to climb out towards me. Poor starving turtle. I love the way he knows what is going on. He knew where I would be coming from and waited. He's done this before only to be disappointed when it's not a food day. He looks at my hands to see if I have the plate. Once he doesn't see it he retreats to his water, probably calling me names. :D
The neat thing is he doesn't come out and bite, looking for food. He knows there isn't any and relaxes.
I've never seen any snapping turtle do this before. Hungry usually means bite something.
I love Tank.

[guidofatherof5]

Climbing?!

GYcOaYcMCOU

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/tank34.jpg

[ProXimuS]

Wow, I would've never guessed they could climb like that!

Hi Tank:)

[guidofatherof5]

Wow, I would've never guessed they could climb like that!

Hi Tank:)

Shhh. Tank is sleeping.:D

[d_virginiana]

lol When I was feeding the snakes fish the other day, I turned around to find my box turtle had somehow gotten hold of the wire part of her cage and then climbed to the top and stuck her head through. It worked; she got some fish after I got her down.
She's probably less than a pound though; wouldn't have thought of one as heavy as a snapper being able to climb like that!

[guidofatherof5]

Snappers are a very strong animal.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

There must be lot rattling around in that head of his:D

[Light of Dae]

I would of wanted to help the poor guy get over the fence... but would have been leery of getting bit as he didn't seem to keen on being filmed after he fell.

[ProXimuS]

I would of wanted to help the poor guy get over the fence... but would have been leery of getting bit as he didn't seem to keen on being filmed after he fell.

lol Me too. I felt bad when he fell:(

[-MARWOLAETH-]

It was probably glad they went to the bother of evolving a shell.

[guidofatherof5]

lol Me too. I felt bad when he fell:(

They are tougher then nails. It's a hard life for MOST snapping turtles.:D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/the_good_life.jpg

[ChareiHeals]

I hate to jack your Tank fun, Steve, but I wanted to share a couple pictures of my favoritest baby of all the babies I have.

This is Brody. And I love him. Very Very much! :)
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[guidofatherof5]

Brody is awesome. Dogs rule.

[ChareiHeals]

I also have Nona. This is from when she was a puppy. And 3 cats on top of Steve and Ginger Noodle (the corn snake).

[guidofatherof5]

Still awesome.

[ChareiHeals]

Thank you Steve! :) Now. Back to Tank. My sister had a baby snapper she caught when she was a kid and she had it for a good 8 months... and then... i don't remember what happened to it. she either released it or my parents did.

But Tank is super awesomesauce. :)

[guidofatherof5]

Thank you Steve! :) Now. Back to Tank. My sister had a baby snapper she caught when she was a kid and she had it for a good 8 months... and then... i don't remember what happened to it. she either released it or my parents did.

But Tank is super awesomesauce. :)

Thanks. I think he's a very special turtle.

[Light of Dae]

Shade was just hanging out with Toed... In my spot on the couch n nether of them would move, throwing my house coat on them they just adjusted n stayed there, lol
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[InsanePirateDragon]

Alright so I've inherited a new little friend who just came home with me last night from my grandmother's funeral.

He's a yellow-collared macaw named Big Burd (thats what she called him so its going to stay) and he's quite a biter and already got a good chomp on me while I was trying to give him some fruit.

So yeah we're already off to a good start, but I know he's been under a lot of stress lately (he's only had someone only coming in to feed him when my grandmother was in hospital) so I'm giving him the benefit of doubt for the moment.

[guidofatherof5]

Keeping a camera handy when Tank wakes up pays off.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/tank_mouth.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

he's quite a biter and already got a good chomp on me while I was trying to give him some fruit.

So yeah we're already off to a good start, but I know he's been under a lot of stress lately (he's only had someone only coming in to feed him when my grandmother was in hospital) so I'm giving him the benefit of doubt for the moment.

Macaws are funny that way. They seem quite vulnerable to psychological problems if they aren't kept by a single owner and treated well their entire lives. They need stability. Simply re-arranging the furniture is quite disturbing to them. It's very possible that he will never snap out of it and will remain somewhat hostile. Once a biter, there seems to be very little you can do to change that. This is why I would never own one unless I got it as a baby and bonded with it through hand-feeding. They bond with their owner for life, while they're still babies, and don't take well to changing hands. Some will even take to plucking their own feathers out if "abandoned" by the person they have bonded to. If they are from a pet store, or already an adult before they bond to someone, then it's difficult if not impossible for them to bond to any human.

[guidofatherof5]

I would call Tank a high maintenance animal. Water changes are most of that.
Then comes the turtle cleaning that goes on. Since Tank is growing so fast he is in a constant shed. Dead skin means one thing. Lots of scratching to get it off. This can create a mess as he splashes water out of his enclosure.
Every couple of days I give him a rub down to help keep the dead skin at bay.
Last night I could see he needed a little help so I gave him a rub. He is so comfortable with human contact that he usually sleeps during the process. This from an animal that as a rule tries to avoid all human contact. Living with us and interacting with us is so natural for him. I would say Tank has a very low stress level.
I think there is a different side to snapping turtles that not many have seen. Given a chance under the right circumstances I find them social and docile.
I still believe Tank is a unique turtle and that most snappers would probably not adapt the same way he has.
I have not lost sight of what he is capable of but in the last 4 years he has shown no indications that biting is part of his personality.
I feel so blessed to be able to interact with him.

[Invisible Snake]

Ever notice that a recently deceased snake has a small green patch on its lower belly? Anyone know what that means and if relates to a COD?I've usually seen this with albinos, snows etc

[guidofatherof5]

I think it is the gallbladder. Fairly normal.

[EasternGirl]

Hi Tank! Sorry to hear about your grandmother, InsanePirate. I think my cat is dying...I'm back to the vet today. The vet suspects kidney disease or failure because she is so old. She is having accidents and goes in and out of the litter box constantly. I'm getting ready to leave for the vet soon.

[ConcinusMan]

Ever notice that a recently deceased snake has a small green patch on its lower belly? Anyone know what that means and if relates to a COD?

I've usually seen this with albinos, snows etc

I don't think so. It's normal for dead snakes to get that, (even normals although depending on skin color it can be hard to see) regardless of the cause of death. It's a result of early stage decomposition and as Steve said, it's their gall bladder.

[Light of Dae]

Hi Tank! Sorry to hear about your grandmother, InsanePirate. I think my cat is dying...I'm back to the vet today. The vet suspects kidney disease or failure because she is so old. She is having accidents and goes in and out of the litter box constantly. I'm getting ready to leave for the vet soon.


In all frankness I would put her down, you cant spend so much money on an old animal, they get old n die that's what all animals do in time. Spending money on a vet here will only draw it out longer then it needs to be.

Hugs, its hard losing a dear pet but its a fact of keeping them, we live longer.

[EasternGirl]

Well...my cat has stage 3 kidney failure. The vet said that cats can actually live quite a while with kidney failure...the key is to make them comfortable. I can't put her down as long as she isn't suffering to the point where I think that is what is best. They put her on antibiotics to get rid of the severe UTI...which is what has been causing her discomfort right now...and she is on pain meds and a new prescription diet for renal failure. I understand what you are saying, Michelle...but as long as she is able to live and she isn't in constant pain...I mean, the vet said it is managable and that we aren't at the point of putting her down yet. I will certainly do it if she starts suffering and we can't do anything about it. She is doing a bit better on the meds now.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Sorry to hear it:(

[ProXimuS]

Sorry to hear about this Marnie. Hope she holds up pretty well.

[kueluck]

You’ll know when it’s time, and she’ll let you know also. I went through this several years ago with my feline friend of 16+ years. I feel your sadness Marnie.

Well...my cat has stage 3 kidney failure. The vet said that cats can actually live quite a while with kidney failure...the key is to make them comfortable. I can't put her down as long as she isn't suffering to the point where I think that is what is best. They put her on antibiotics to get rid of the severe UTI...which is what has been causing her discomfort right now...and she is on pain meds and a new prescription diet for renal failure. I understand what you are saying, Michelle...but as long as she is able to live and she isn't in constant pain...I mean, the vet said it is managable and that we aren't at the point of putting her down yet. I will certainly do it if she starts suffering and we can't do anything about it. She is doing a bit better on the meds now.

[guidofatherof5]

I've posted many photos of Tank but this is a first.
This one was taken underwater.
Tank was very interested in the new item in his water home.
Olympus Stylus 1030SW

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/Tank_s_water_world.jpg

[Greg'sGarters]

Steve - I have an iPhone and there is this thing called a Life Proof case. It it waterproof and I take pictures of myself underwater, and my animals underwater.

Marnie - Sorry to hear about your cat. I know what it is like to find out that one of your loved ones is going to die and having to wait for them to pass on. My grandma died 364 days ago on Christmas of 2011, and ironically my only Christmas wish that year was that she would live through Christmas.

[Invisible Snake]

7720

Awesome picture being shared on FB. I want to work with arboreal snakes in the future.

[ProXimuS]

What kind is that?

[Invisible Snake]

What kind is that?

It's an Emerald Tree Boa :)

[Invisible Snake]

This little guy we took in from an estranged family member. He's been with us for the past couple of months. Does anyone know what type of breed he might be?

7752

And a week before Christmas I spoiled myself and purchased this girl, she is a butter ball python.

77537754

[ProXimuS]

Very cute dog:) It's just a mixed breed, but those are the best kind:D Looks like it could possibly be a Cairn terrier mix...It's hard to say.

Oh yea, awesome snake too!

[tress29]

Looks like it could possibly be a Cairn terrier mix...Maybe Silky Terrier mix? Definitely adorable.

[ProXimuS]

Yea, silky or yorkie. It's got sorta soft wispy lookin hair like them. Dog's are so hard to tell. It could even have two mixed breed parents.

Still cute:) What's his/her name?

[Invisible Snake]

Yea, silky or yorkie. It's got sorta soft wispy lookin hair like them. Dog's are so hard to tell. It could even have two mixed breed parents.

Still cute:) What's his/her name?

His name is Yovi, idk who named him or where they got that name from. I just call him Yogi.

[Invisible Snake]

7777

Emerald Tree Boa

[guidofatherof5]

Sweeeet.

[snake man]

Thats pretty scary.

[Stefan-A]

Well, if you want to catch birds with your teeth, you need teeth that won't just slide through the plumage without hitting meat.

[guidofatherof5]

Here is Tank heading into his new water enclosure for the first time on his own. He had outgrown his 25 gal round so now he has a 45 gal. oval.
He didn't like the change in location either. He's fine with it all now.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/Tank_s_new_tank.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

What, no ramp?

[guidofatherof5]

What, no ramp?

His big pillow is usually in front.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/big_tank4.jpg

[Invisible Snake]

What, no ramp?

I smell a lawsuit! lol jk :p

[guidofatherof5]

Here's a before and after of Tank.
He's a good sleeping turtle.:D
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/sleepy_tank.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/sleeping_tank3.jpg

[Invisible Snake]

Steve, are Tanks colors getting darker?

[guidofatherof5]

Steve, are Tanks colors getting darker?

Good eye. Yes they are.

[ConcinusMan]

I noticed that. He looks very solid lately too. I wonder if he's been into some TGH.

[guidofatherof5]

I noticed that. He looks very solid lately too. I wonder if he's been into some TGH.

Okay, I'll bite. What is TGH? Guessing Turtle Growth Hormone?:D

[ConcinusMan]

You got it. ;)

[guidofatherof5]

It's simply called "the good life";)

[ConcinusMan]

So he's been taking TGL injections then.:p

[snake man]

So I have been thinking about getting a bearded dragon and was wondering if there is any problem with having them in the same room(after quarantine of course) as the garters. Also I have done reasearch and am pretty confinident in my ability to care for the little guy but if anyone is an owner of one and has any advice it would be greatly apprieciated.

[guidofatherof5]

Quarantine doesn't change the pathogens each animal carries. Some of what could happen is in you control and some isn't.
Strict hand washing after handling each animal reduces the chance of spreading those pathogens but doesn't eliminate it. There is always a risk.
With that being said I don't know what those risks could be.
I keep a bearded dragon in the living room and across the room I have some garters. As far as I know all is well.
Lots of hand washing here.;)

[Invisible Snake]

This should be in the "Other Pets" thread, just saying.

[guidofatherof5]

I think this one could have gone either way as there is a garter snake connection in the narrative.:)

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I'm not sure any pathogens would be compatable as they'r terrariums are kept in completely different conditions and the animals in question have been seperated by millions of years of evolution.

[Stefan-A]

I'm not sure any pathogens would be compatable as they'r terrariums are kept in completely different conditions and the animals in question have been seperated by millions of years of evolution.
You've only got half the equation there. The other is the pathogens, which also evolve. And the pathogens that spread through collections are rarely picky about their hosts.

(Besides, snakes are just a subset of lizard.)

[Light of Dae]

I've got a bearded dragon in the same room as my garters, kingsnake and a rose hair tarantula. No issues, different feed days and washing hand n everything. haven't had a problem.

[snake man]

Ok, thank you guys.

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/Tank_food_1.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/Tank_food_2.jpg

[Selkielass]

Shrimp?
Lucky Tank...

[ConcinusMan]

Shrimp and steak. If any herp of mine requires such a lavish feast, he's going to have to get a job.:p

[guidofatherof5]

Shrimp?
Lucky Tank...


Shrimp and steak. If any herp of mine requires such a lavish feast, he's going to have to get a job.:p

"It's good to be King" :D

[guidofatherof5]

At the Ranch if you move the large dog pillow in the living room don't be surprised to find a near 20 lb snapping turtle sleeping under it.
Every time I see one of Tank's rear claws all stretched out it reminds me of the "Creature from the Black Lagoon" movie.
I'm glad he uses them for good and not evil.:D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/pillow_tank.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/rear_claw.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

E=mc2


you've only got half the equation there.

E2 = (MC2)2 + (PC)2

(P= Momentum)

(E= Energy)

(M= Mass)

(C= Speed of light)

There... Happy now? :p

@#^%$! I hate arithmetic. An abstract painting involving monkeys living on mushrooms on the moon makes more sense to me.:p

Which, I suppose, is why I enjoy "arguing" with Stefan so much. :D

OK... back on topic. Here's a bearded dragon. Yay!

http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/2295126/homepage/name/homepage.jpg?type=sn

You should be honored Stefan. While growing up, I would have lengthy arguments ONLY with the best teachers. That hasn't changed. :D

Here's to a new year of arguing with Stefan. *dodging rotten vegetables*

[CrazyHedgehog]

7791
there's a cat in the Christmas tree!

[ConcinusMan]

If this was facebook, I would hit the "like' button. and "share" ;)

[guidofatherof5]

Tonight was a food night for Tank so I prepared his meal. I also included a few slices of avocado on his plate as I feel he needs to start eating vegetables as part of his diet. I took a slice of avocado and place a chunk of meat on top. My thought was he would grab both items and be forced to eat both items.
My spirits were high as he approached the food but knew I was in trouble when he stopped to look at it before taking it. The dang smart turtle knew something was up and like a surgeon he removed the meat never touching the avocado. 3 more times I tried to fool him but the joke was on me each time. It was very cool to see how tactile he was with his beak. Not gulping down whatever was offered but choosing what he would and wouldn't eat.
I still had one more trick to try. Even though Tank is a calm and relaxed turtle he can't resist snapping at food dropped in the water. It's a reflex action and he rarely misses the food.
So I waited a few minutes and dropped the slice of avocado in front of him. He snapped it up as I expected and immediately spit it back out.
I was beaten again by this special turtle.
Everyday is a new adventure and I love seeing and learning about this very misunderstood turtle. He is smart and not aggressive as most people think.
I hope to live at least another 25 years and I hope that time is spent learning from my teaching turtle Tank.;)

[Invisible Snake]

My female mojo

7834

[ConcinusMan]

Have you given him avocado before Steve? It's just that I've heard they can kill certain birds and other animals. This isn't always linked to the pit or skin, but the fat or the persin in it. ("Persin is a fungicidal toxin present in the avocado. It is generally harmless to humans, but when consumed by domestic animals in large quantities it is dangerous")

I know that when I was raising exotic parrots, avocados were a big no-no. Even a small amount of just the flesh often would cause birds to drop dead or become very ill.

Avocados are very high in fat. Not so sure this qualifies as a "vegetable" in his diet.:rolleyes:

[guidofatherof5]

Mojo looks great.

Know nothing about the avocado problem Richard. I'll have to look into it. Thanks for the heads-up.

[Invisible Snake]

Mojo looks great.

Thanks Steve!

[guidofatherof5]

It's a turtle thing. The one on the bottom had a bout with a shell infection. A month of daily treatments(betabine) took care of it.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/turtle_thing.jpg

[ChareiHeals]

He looks like he's pretending to be superman! That's hilarious.

[ChareiHeals]

This is Nona. She wanted to say hi! (My roommate grabbed this picture of her yesterday.)
7849

[guidofatherof5]

Good looking dog. Hello Nona.

[ChareiHeals]

Good looking dog. Hello Nona.

Thank you. She's kinda spazzy. I really need to get pictures of my other critters. it's just a pain emailing them to myself to post from work.

[ProXimuS]

Awesome snake InvisibleSnake :) Is it a ball?


About the avocado, I actually just did some slight research on it yesterday. I was looking it up because I was going to try some dog food for Tippy called Avoderm.....containing avocado. I thought I had heard it wasn't good for animals, so I looked it up

ASPCA | People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.aspx)

There's a little info, avocado is the third one down.

Well I guess that's not super helful because it didn't mention reptiles...:rolleyes:

[ConcinusMan]

Just thought I would mention it. Just seems like it could be risky for reptiles too. Not sure. And if I'm not sure, I don't give it to 'em. I've seen first hand what it does to some parrots. It's not a pretty death.

[Invisible Snake]

Awesome snake InvisibleSnake :) Is it a ball?

Thanks! Yes it's a ball python, I hope in the future I can breed her and possibly produce a BEL aka blue eyed leucistic which is essentially an all white bp with blue eyes :)

Like this..

7866

[snake man]

I love the look of those, how much do you think they go for on average.

[Selkielass]

That ones very pretty. Most I've seen in person are far dirtier looking- no where near so white.

[ProXimuS]

I love leucistics :)

[Invisible Snake]

I love the look of those, how much do you think they go for on average.

Depends on the pairing that produced it and the gender. I've seen male babies go for $800 and female babies for $900 and that's considered a great deal if you can find it.

[Invisible Snake]

I love leucistics :)

Me too!

It's weird with bps because to produce a BEL you need a mojave, butter or lesser bred to either a mojave, butter or lesser. None of which are albinos or leucistics and you have a 25% chance of producing a BEL.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

$800!? I swear,these morph breeder are pulling random figures out their arse

[Invisible Snake]

$800!? I swear,these morph breeder are pulling random figures out their arse

That's nothing, check out a banana royal/ball python, they are a new morph and they sell for $25,000 USD

It's all about supply and demand

[ProXimuS]

Me too!

It's weird with bps because to produce a BEL you need a mojave, butter or lesser bred to either a mojave, butter or lesser. None of which are albinos or leucistics and you have a 25% chance of producing a BEL.

Weird....So what if you bred two leucistics? Or a leucistic with a mojave or something?

[Invisible Snake]

Weird....So what if you bred two leucistics? Or a leucistic with a mojave or something?

If you bred 2 leucistics all the offspring would be leucistics. I'm still new to bp morphs and genes, I use this Genetic Wizard - World of Ball Pythons (http://www.worldofballpythons.com/wizard/)

It's a great genetic calculator for ball pythons, I wish there was 1 for garter snakes

[ProXimuS]

Awesome site! I wonder if there are/could be issues with breeding two leuctistics or any other morphs directly together. I know that with Chinese Crested dogs you can't breed to of the hairless ones together. It's gotta be a hairless and a powderpuff if you want hairless babies. And even still I don't think they are all born hairless.


Edit: Someone needs to come up with a site like that for garters:D

[ConcinusMan]

http://www.geneticswizard.com/

[guidofatherof5]

Here's a funny Tank story for you.

Last night I was talking with Tank (Chelydra serpentina -Common Snapping Turtle). We were discussing how he should come out and go to bed. I must have been getting through to him because he started to come out. As I got his blanket ready he stop and decided to think the situation over. I knew what this meant, he was going to go back into the water. I quickly grabbed his front legs and started pulling him out. The big power brute started kicking and pulling himself back in. I released his front legs and quickly grabbed the sides of his shell mid body. At this point he kicked it into 4 wheel drive and made great effort to get back in his water. While all this is happening I'm yelling "No Tank, no" The battle continued and I was able to pull this 20 pound turtle out onto his pillow and blanket. Once on his pillow he started digging in, in an attempt to go to sleep. I covered him and within moments he was still and probably asleep.
"Father know best":D

[guidofatherof5]

Here's my boy. He's getting so big.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/tank_face2.jpg

[mikem]

wow, that is a big head! :cool:

[Invisible Snake]

Interesting scale/ID breakdown...
7911

[mikem]

Some recent pics of Panzer :) She weighed less than 1lb when I got her back in April. She's just a tad over 3lbs now.
7912
7913

[guidofatherof5]

Panzer is looking good. A little young for Tank though.:D
She's a nice girl. Is she very shy or does she stay out with contact?

[snake man]

7916I picked up this little guy last sunday. Only three weeks old, am really enjoying him so far.

[guidofatherof5]

7916I picked up this little guy last sunday. Only three weeks old, am really enjoying him so far.

Sweet little beardie.

[mikem]

Panzer is looking good. A little young for Tank though.:D
She's a nice girl. Is she very shy or does she stay out with contact?

She is still a little shy at first and will pull her head back. I was rubbing on her feet, giving her a little massage before I took these photos. After a couple of minutes of feet and neck rubbing, she turned and started crawling into my lap. That's when I started taking pictures. Still no gaping of the mouth or snapping at me, so she at least tolerates me for now! :cool:

[guidofatherof5]

I hope she continues to bond with you. I know that's a strange word to use in respect to a snapping turtle but Tank has definitely bonded with me.
He seeks me out when I come in the room. He likes just hanging out with me. I love it.

[mikem]

I plan to keep working with her for as long as she lets me. If she decides to become grumpy as she matures, I guess we'll just be grumpy together! :D

[ProXimuS]

7916I picked up this little guy last sunday. Only three weeks old, am really enjoying him so far.

I didn't know they came in red. Is that just a baby color? Or will he stay that color?

[snake man]

These little guys come in a few morphs. This one in particular will only get redder for the next few yeara and then keep it.
http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z438/redcar122/210005_4311077507509_1312534769_o_zpsbe061333.jpg
Thats a picture of the two parents. The baby is a red het translucent.

[guidofatherof5]

Good looking beardies.

[mikem]

Those are some awesome looking beardies! I'd imagine yours will be just as stunning when it's all grown up! :cool:

[snake man]

Those are some awesome looking beardies! I'd imagine yours will be just as stunning when it's all grown up! :cool:

Thank you, that is what I'm hoping for :D.

[guidofatherof5]

I've learned something more about Tank(Chelydra serpentina-Common Snapping Turtle) and how to make him more comfortable. He likes to have pressure on him when he sleeps or at least a feeling of security. So I took his large dog pillow and made a hollowed out area in the middle about the size of his shell. When he is in it he has pillow all around him. The first night I put him in it he didn't bother moving around like he usually does. He just went to sleep. 36 hours later I made him get up to use the facilities.
It was much needed as he , well you know what I mean.
Once again tonight I made his bed and he went right to sleep. He did poke his head out once to watch me on the laptop but then it was off to bed again.
He's such a good turtle.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/medium/tanks_pillow.jpg

[Invisible Snake]

7945

[-MARWOLAETH-]

What your mainly paying for with the reptile brands is the pretty pictures of reptiles on the box

[ConcinusMan]

100 watt? good lawd. Tried that very same bulb (the zoo med one pictured) before and even in a 55 gallon tank, 18 inches above the floor, it got over 100 degrees under it. I can't imagine a situation where I would need one that hot. OK, maybe for beardies in huge enclosures.

Oh, and BTW, every time I've had these zoo med bulbs, they've burned out in no time at all. One lasted 3 days. Others less than a month. Ridiculous. Switched to $1 household flood lamps from dollar tree and they lasted many months.

[guidofatherof5]

The battle to get Tank (Chelydra serpentina- Common Snapping Turtle) to include vegetables and fruits into his diet continues.
It was a difficult decision to let him get hungry but I thought it was worth a try. This evening he woke up and headed to his water. I went and got him a strawberry and bing cherry.
Dropping half a strawberry in front of him was met with and immediate strike and grab. He held it in his mouth for a couple seconds then spit it out.
I waited a couple minutes and dropped half a cherry in. He grabbed it and swallowed it. I was on a roll so I offered the other half of the cherry. It too was grabbed and eaten. Finally I've found something he likes. Out to the kitchen I went for a few more cherries.
My hopes were quickly dashed as he refused to eat the cherries after grabbing them.
I'm happy that he at least ate one. I hope things will change as he matures.
The really cool thing was he never grabbed me as I reached in to retrieve the cherry halves. He knows fingers are off limits. Even when he's hungry.
He's a smart turtle.

[ConcinusMan]

I wonder if it would help if he was given plants placed in his water. (lettuce, collard greens, mustard greens, carrot tops, endives, Swiss chard, kale, parsley, green beans, dandelion greens, turnip greens, clover) It's just that I've never seen or heard of aquatic turtles eating veggies on land but I see them foraging and eating them in ponds all the time. They'll dive for a bit and sometimes they come up with a mouth full or sometimes i see them nibbling on duck weed off the surface at a local pond.

[guidofatherof5]

Yeah, still to be tried.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I wonder if he'd eat duck weed like smaller ssp do.

[ConcinusMan]

Let me see... someone offers you steak and shrimp, and duck weed. Which one would you eat?

[Invisible Snake]

The battle to get Tank (Chelydra serpentina- Common Snapping Turtle) to include vegetables and fruits into his diet continues.
It was a difficult decision to let him get hungry but I thought it was worth a try. This evening he woke up and headed to his water. I went and got him a strawberry and bing cherry.
Dropping half a strawberry in front of him was met with and immediate strike and grab. He held it in his mouth for a couple seconds then spit it out.
I waited a couple minutes and dropped half a cherry in. He grabbed it and swallowed it. I was on a roll so I offered the other half of the cherry. It too was grabbed and eaten. Finally I've found something he likes. Out to the kitchen I went for a few more cherries.
My hopes were quickly dashed as he refused to eat the cherries after grabbing them.
I'm happy that he at least ate one. I hope things will change as he matures.
The really cool thing was he never grabbed me as I reached in to retrieve the cherry halves. He knows fingers are off limits. Even when he's hungry.
He's a smart turtle.

What if you scented the fruits and vegetables with some of his favorite foods, would that work?

[Greg'sGarters]

Or maybe get a nice fillet of chicken breast and roll that around some fruits and veggies, a snapping turtle burrito!

[guidofatherof5]

Or maybe get a nice fillet of chicken breast and roll that around some fruits and veggies, a snapping turtle burrito!

Good idea but this is a turtle that take in a mouth full of trout chow both fresh(hard) and softened and sorts them out in his mouth spitting the softened one back out. He only likes the crunchy ones.:D

[Greg'sGarters]

How about this?

You take chicken breast, strawberries, and greens
Put them all together in a blender and puree it
Pour it out and add a little flour (to help it stay together and snappers like bread/dough)
Ball it up and feed him that

Does that sound good?

[guidofatherof5]

Everything but the flour part.:D

[Greg'sGarters]

Sounds great!

[guidofatherof5]

Tonight while I worked on my laptop Tank woke up and stuck his head out from under his blanket. After a few moments I notice he was giving me a strange stare. It appeared he was looking at the top of my head. Then I realized he was looking at the head set I was wearing. I took it off and let his see it up close and smell it. He is such a curious turtle and very observant.
After that was done I spent some one-on-one time with him. We were as close to each other as the photo suggests. He is such a calm turtle.
I have never worked with a turtle like him. He seeks out interaction and wants me as close to him as I can get. If he's in his water he will stretch his neck out to be close to me. I can honestly say we have bonded. Very unusual behavior for a snapping turtle or any turtle for that matter. His attitude is the same whether he is hungry, tired or full. I hope to get many more years with this awesome turtle.



http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/tank_looking.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/tank_and_dad1.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//751/tank_face3.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

I've said it before that I thought Tank had bonded with me.
Tonight I got more evidence that is what has happened. I was sitting on the couch watching some football. Tank's enclosure is behind me (the couch sits in the middle of the room) My daughter Hailee yelled to me that Tank was out of his water. A few moments later I see Tank climbing up the side of the couch. Once on my lap he went to sleep.
Crazy snapping turtle.

[Light of Dae]

Steve maybe you should try to marinate his veggies in steak blood overnight... I think that would work..

[ConcinusMan]

I think that Tank is bit smarter than that. I mean, would putting frosting on brussel sprouts make you think it was cake?

[ProXimuS]

I was thinking of Tank today. I went to a place where you can feed and pet sting rays, and they used to have some sort of huge snapping turtle. I was soo excited to see it, but it wasn't there :(

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I think that Tank is bit smarter than that. I mean, would putting frosting on brussel sprouts make you think it was cake?

I have no idea why... but I must have laughed for 2 minutes straight at this post. I need to go to bed.............. hahahaha

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I am gonna post a few things off my photobucket of some of my other guys!

This is Shoom, my male tokay
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/AB3A9CB6-9F52-428C-A5EE-93EC4C6777ED-8967-0000069058762A9B.jpg

Paarthurnax
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/A9E035B5-E2B4-46E8-A08B-9404752E4328-1014-0000009D7D1A8833.jpg

Princess, the most interesting olive python in the world. And by that I mean she's a high maintenance little turd :P
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/E48313B0-30CB-4643-9732-A9B9D82DE508-1014-00000096116BE092.jpg

Mrs. Puff - female spilotes
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/BC26D674-ADED-4812-AB2A-905F8696F2A5-1859-00000135F58F1367.jpg

little collage of all of my king rats and their eye colors as well
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/0C91136C-B854-4539-BAF2-1281246A88BD-1859-00000135E06B4293.jpg

Yoshi... I'll miss ya buddy... thanks to Hurricane Sandy Yoshi is no longer with us.
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/54D5AF1C-E749-4696-8A56-B4E9EB148A82-9274-000005F06F09A131.jpg

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Leetle bitty blacktail cribo... a future monster!!!! This is the male... female has black belly flecks
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180650.jpg

The adorable and amazing Sledge! One of my most very treasured things on this whole earth
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180663.jpg

Jetta in her typical fashion
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180513.jpg

Squidward!!!!
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180477.jpg

Persephone... I could just bask in her aura all day every day
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180448.jpg

Senor Felipe
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180441.jpg

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Sir Never-Bites
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180432.jpg

The cuteness that is Sledge.... a hognose wearing sunglasses
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180432.jpg

Another darling photo of the cutest chubby cheeked serpent that ever lived!
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180013.jpg

This is Domino.... the california kingsnake was my first real infatuation as far as snakes go. I'll never forget the excitement I felt when I went to pick out Bandit. Losing him in a horrible accident, knowing his life was cut short at only 10 was one of the hardest things I have dealt with yet. I will always keep california kings in his memory!
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170969.jpg

This is Winter... my adult female lavendar black rat.
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170899.jpg

Tang
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170882.jpg

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

This.... is Sithis. After the accident, the members of iHerp.com opened a fund and within a mere few hours raised the $500 to purchase for me this male along with his female sibling. I am forever grateful that my fellow hobbyists kept me from calling it quits and leaving for good. Needless to say, I treasure these snakes very dearly.
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170845.jpg

Here he is right after they came to me
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1160050-1.jpg

Namira, his sister
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/62948_232008_VeryLarge_6F0juNEhxysa.jpg

This fine Beast is Dammit. A friend sent Dammit and also Cam my adult cave dwelling rat snake to me as a git to help rebuild. His name is Dammit for a reason... he has the tendency to think you are feeding him at all of the wrong times! And he has a 'tude problem.
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/9416_236512_VeryLarge_2Sd8HVQ8HI.jpg

If anyone is really interested in what I am up to these days... my entire, snake by snake collection is viewable here (except for my 1.3 flying snakes since I havent taken pics of them yet)

iHerp : Online Reptile Software, Husbandry, Community, Tracking, Breeding, Snakes, and More! (http://iherp.com/Public/Animals/MembersAnimals.aspx?UserID=2e381da0-fd24-4f0e-aa12-5508db7a5c6b)

[ProXimuS]

Awesome snakes. What kind of snakes are Jetta and Squidward? Jetta looks leucistic, but I must know what type:D

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Beautiful snakes! Especialy the Psammophis :D

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Beautiful snakes! Especialy the Psammophis :D

I think the snake you are referring to is my masticophis bilineatus :D of which I have three males!

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Awesome snakes. What kind of snakes are Jetta and Squidward? Jetta looks leucistic, but I must know what type:D

Jetta is the classic leucistic texas rat... and Squidward is vietnamese blue beauty.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

Its remarkable how similar they look,the head looks just like sibilans!
How similar are they to Psammophis in behavior and venom?

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Its remarkable how similar they look,the head looks just like sibilans! How similar are they to Psammophis in behavior and venom?

They aren't venomous any more than the common black rat snake would be. I don't know behavior wise, because I haven't kept Psammophis... but I have friends who do, and I am willing to bet it's very similar. They're extremely alert and smart snakes. 100% visually oriented and wow, one of my males is the meanest snake that lives on the planet. it's cute.... he does flying leaps out of his enclosure to nail me right on the cheek! The one in the photograph is very docile and even "tame" he will allow you to handle him and eats right on front of you.

[ConcinusMan]

Jetta is the classic leucistic texas rat..

Came so close to buying one last year. I still might someday soon and when I do, it will be my only non-thamnophis.

BTW Shannon, the "hognose with glasses" was just a repeat of the photo above it. We didn't get to see the pic you intended to show.:(

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Came so close to buying one last year. I still might someday soon and when I do, it will be my only non-thamnophis.

BTW Shannon, the "hognose with glasses" was just a repeat of the photo above it. We didn't get to see the pic you intended to show.

ahh!!! thanks for letting me know. Richard, I actually have an adult pair of leucies. She is just getting to breeding size. if they breed this year I will be happy to send you one or two!

Here is the picture along with some others from the same batch :)

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180029.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180028.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180026.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1180025.jpg

Additional cuteness:
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170888.jpg

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

And since Squidward and Jetta are two of my most popular snakes here's some more!


http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170665.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170670.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170623.jpg

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P1170120.jpg

Excuse me, but I mustache you a question!

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/P11703078.jpg

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Oh and here is Onyx... my male. He's bigger, and thinks he's a total B. A.

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll86/aSnakeLovinBabe/7be20b57.jpg

[ProXimuS]

Awesome:cool: Do leucistics need the same care as albinos?

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Awesome:cool: Do leucistics need the same care as albinos?

If you mean food and water... yes :P

no but seriously... if you are talking about the light thing... these snakes still retain darkness in their eyes, what is affected is their skin and iris pigments are all whited out (most still have small flecks of black, red and yellow throughout). Onyc has a small red spot on his side that makes me and everyone else thinks he has a cut and is bleeding... hehe. They have dark eyes inside, with gray irises.

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

Look at it this way... amel is where melanin is completely removed... whereas leucistic is like taking a normal snake and applying a white coat of paint to the whole thing!

[ProXimuS]

Cool! Thanks for explaining:)

[charliegirl]

Hi guys - I'm wondering if anyone knows of someone that has rubber boas for sale? I'm having troubles finding breeders of these little guys. I don't think they're very popular for whatever reason, but I would like one to add to my small collection of two snakes! (One ghost corn & a lemon pastel ball python.) Thanks in advance!

[ConcinusMan]

I don't know of any commercial breeders of this species but they aren't hard to find in western WA if you look in the right place at the right time. I find them now and then. Usually under boards/tin logs etc. in grassy areas bordering forests. Spring and fall are best times to find them. It is illegal to keep them though in WA. They tend to overlook the law against keeping native wildlife when it comes to garter snakes (probably because they're so abundant and common) but they confiscated my rubber boa years ago and gave me a very stern warning. They let me keep the garters even though it's technically illegal to keep natives. However, they (WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife enforcement officers) didn't like it at all, that i had a rubber boa and they took it. Broke my heart too. I loved that sweet boa.

[charliegirl]

I don't know of any commercial breeders of this species but they aren't hard to find in western WA if you look in the right place at the right time. I find them now and then. Usually under boards/tin logs etc. in grassy areas bordering forests. Spring and fall are best times to find them. It is illegal to keep them though in WA. They tend to overlook the law against keeping native wildlife when it comes to garter snakes (probably because they're so abundant and common) but they confiscated my rubber boa years ago and gave me a very stern warning. They let me keep the garters even though it's technically illegal to keep natives. However, they (WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife enforcement officers) didn't like it at all, that i had a rubber boa and they took it. Broke my heart too. I loved that sweet boa.

How did they even find out about your rubber boa in the first place?

[Invisible Snake]

Hi guys - I'm wondering if anyone knows of someone that has rubber boas for sale?

Available (http://www.captivebredherps.com/Available.html)

They are very hard to find both in the wild and in captivity. Try e-mailing the above link and see if they will have any for sale this year, also research them (the breeders/company) to make sure they have good reviews.

[Steveo]

Approaching the 3' Mark: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BBRLdGzCQAAI3BB.jpg:large

[ConcinusMan]

How did they even find out about your rubber boa in the first place?

Someone called them. I used to put the garters out in the backyard in screen cages to get some sun on nice days. Neighbor was "one of those" type of neighbors if you know what I mean so I think they called. They were constantly calling cops, the city, anyone and everyone, for every little thing.

Anyway, they really didn't have a warrant or any right to come in but since I cooperated, they were nice about it and let me keep the garters once they saw they were well cared for and I didn't have very many.

Unless you're hoarding them, overcrowding, dirty cages, etc., I didn't see any reason not to cooperate. These guys are very reasonable and mainly concerned about game violations, poachers etc. I figured the worst that could happen with a few snakes is that they would take them and just warn me. Then I'd just go get some more, lol. But it was better than that. They just flat out let me keep the garters. But they did tell me don't get any more, or any other wild animals and they would leave me alone. Never heard from them again.

I think the only reason they took the boas is that at the time they were considered endangered in WA (they were on the state threatened list) but not anymore. But still, like I said, it is illegal to have them anyway and even if you found a breeder, he could get into trouble if he ships them into WA. WA is like CA. Illegal to import animals native to the state, even (and especially) if they're captive bred somewhere else.

[charliegirl]

One of those neighbors... ahhh yes.

I understand WA's laws in wanting to protect the native animals, especially if they're an endangered species. But it's a little weird with some animals such as garters. I guess that's probably why the guy didn't confiscate your garters. It's probably also why at reptile shows (here in WA) it's not that uncommon to see garters.

There's a reptile zoo in Monroe WA and they have a rubber boa. That's how I even found out about those guys in the first place!

[Steveo]

Approaching the 3' Mark: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BBRLdGzCQAAI3BB.jpg:large


I just realized that I copied this picture directly from my Twitter account, so some might not be able to see it. I'll fix it when I get home tonight.

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I just realized that I copied this picture directly from my Twitter account, so some might not be able to see it. I'll fix it when I get home tonight.

I can see it, and I have never once set foot on twitter :)

[MasSalvaje]

Available (http://www.captivebredherps.com/Available.html)

They are very hard to find both in the wild and in captivity.

Not if you know where and when to look (speaking of the wild part of the above statement). They are actually surprisingly common throughout their range, you just have to know when to look. Timing is key with charina. They probably aren't as popular in captivity because they are not active, you rarely seem them above cover, they can be very particular eaters, and they only eat for a handful of months out of the year. I have one that I keep and they are quiet fascinating and tend to keep you on your toes as far as care goes.

-Thomas