Ranch News

[guidofatherof5]

Thought I'd start a thread for T.radix Ranch news.

Today the Ranch had a forum member come by to check things out.
Selkielass and her family. It was a wonderful time. Nice to have some adult conversation with a fellow garter lover :D
Loved having you here, you are welcome anytime(within reason):D

There is an open invitation to all forum member who find themselves in my area.

[jitami]

Nice :) I hope someone got pictures... I miss the stories of James & our other European members visiting each other...

[Mommy2many]

It's wonderful that a forum member got to visit the ranch!
Now we need pictures!

[guidofatherof5]

Dealing with a tragedy this morning. My daughter Hailee's snake is dieing.
Hailee caught Data(as she named her) in the back yard. Data wasn't very happy to be found and had quite an attitude for awhile but soon calmed down. That was 2 years ago.
This year I noticed Data was eating more then normal but not gaining any weight and actually losing some.
I gave her a round or Panacur thinking maybe I missed some parasites on the first round over a year ago.
Nothing change after the treatment.
It was then I realized that Data was probably just an old snake at the end of her time.
I've seen this kind of thing in many elderly snakes.
I continued to pump the food in and over the last 2 weeks but the weight lose has gotten much worse.
Data is resting in the fridge at this time. I don't think there will be need for the freezer. She is very week and on the verge of death as I type.
Hailee is doing as well as a 10 year old girl can, at a time like this.

[RedSidedSPR]

Sorry Hailee!:(

[indigoman]

My thoughts go out too Hailee.

[katach]

So sorry. Give my condolences to Hailee.

[ConcinusMan]

Just remember with each passing heartbreak, you're raising kids that will be well prepared and ready to deal with all of life's disappointments and tragedies. There is a reason for everything, even tragedy, and always value in every experience. Unpleasant or not. You know this, I know it, and now it's making for a future for your kids as adults that is rock-solid with all the necessary coping skills they need to be successful adults. It hurts, but it hurts good and makes one a stronger, more emotionally balanced and stable individual.

Just another way to look at it.:cool:

[kibakiba]

I kind of wish I was able to have experienced actual loss as a kid, as weird as that may sound. I killed plenty of animals on accident as a kid, without even realizing it... But my mom always told me she let them go out in the field, so they could live a happy life outside and that soon I'd see hamsters and guinea pigs running around the fields. Of course, the truth was they died. I get pretty unstable when things go wrong, and it's hard on me, obviously. In my opinion, sometimes loss is something we need in life, even if it's something we never want to feel. I think I'd have an easier time being less lazy if there was some actual punishment in my life, isn't that a little weird? Hah.

[guidofatherof5]

Fall must be close by as our girl Lucky has gone off food.
It's like clockwork for her. Same time every year.
Now Gabby and I will worry for the next month to month and a half.
I think Lucky does this just to get us upset.
Lucky have taken two years off from breeding so next year I think will try to get some beautiful albino hets from her.
Lucky has been with us for almost 4 years and has taught me so much about garter snake behavior.
I remember picking her up as a baby while I cut the grass.
Little did I know what a wonderful adventure we were going to have with her.

[RedSidedSPR]

I hate when they go off food!

[Mrs N1ntndo]

will babies do it to or only the ones old enough to breed. Its weird cause when i had my garters before none of them went off food. The ate even in the winter just not at much. So I never knew until I came here that they went off food. Weird huh. You learn something new everyday.

[guidofatherof5]

I've never had any babies go off food for seasonal reasons.
For my snakes it usually occurs once they become adults.

[ConcinusMan]

As a general rule, babies are in rapid growth phase and should be eating quite a bit and putting any food that they don't need for immediate energy, into growth. Once they are a certain age/size (varies) they tend to go through cycles of growth and invest some of that food into a stored reserve.

If they aren't using it for growth, and their reserve is at capacity, they simply stop eating for a while.

[guidofatherof5]

Usually cooler temps and leaves coloring up are good signs that Fall is on the way.
Here at the Ranch we have another one "Tank"
Yesterday, I woke Tank up from a 22 hour sleep. I thought it would be good if he re-hydrates his skin, gets a drink and uses the bathroom(hopefully in that order)
Tank did get up and took care of all his responsibilities(in the proper order). This all took about 5 minutes, then it was back out to sleep under his blanket.
Fall and Winter are Tank's least active time. Most of that time spent sleeping and growing.
He still gets up to hangout with us but not near as much.

[jitami]

Fall must be close by as our girl Lucky has gone off food.
It's like clockwork for her. Same time every year.
Now Gabby and I will worry for the next month to month and a half.


Already? Man, I am not looking forward to this. Sly goes off food every year and I worry the entire time. He's thinner this year than I'd like and I'm not ready for him be on a hunger strike. Hmmm. 10 is not old for a snake, right? Sigh. They do like to upset us from time to time, don't they?

[guidofatherof5]

. They do like to upset us from time to time, don't they?


Some more then others.:D

[RedSidedSPR]

Mine just came off a 3 month fast!!!!!!!

[d_virginiana]

I'd say 10 isn't so much old as... distinguished, for a snake :D

[Mrs N1ntndo]

I've never had any babies go off food for seasonal reasons.
For my snakes it usually occurs once they become adults.

Even the adults I had years ago would eat all year round. Just the amount would change. Is that because of the temp in the house or what?

[jitami]

I'd say 10 isn't so much old as... distinguished, for a snake :D

Sounds good to me :)

[brain]

Mine just came off a 3 month fast!!!!!!!

My Womas haven’t eaten anything g in the last 3 months, they come out to drink or enjoy the lamp but eat … ha.

However, today both eat four rats apiece. And now I will not see them again for about three months.

[guidofatherof5]

The loss of my girl Honda has been difficult to say the least. To keep my mind off of this loss I've been visiting all the other enclosures to check-in on some other great snakes.
When I looked in on Tourettes's group I saw her up in the vines.
I was taken back by her size and beauty. This, from a small baby with very visiable health issues to this large adult female that is full and strong.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tourette21.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

Apparently Tank wanted me off the computer.
This is how he got my attention.
He's such a smart turtle.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tank211.jpg

[katach]

That is hilarious!

[guidofatherof5]

Never a dull moment with Tank.
Everyday is a new adventure.:D
He is so much fun to have in our home.

[RedSidedSPR]

You really think he was doing that to get your attention? If so that's amazing.

[guidofatherof5]

Not sure what else it could be. Just look at his face in the photo.
He knows exactly what he's doing:D

[RedSidedSPR]

"What?":D

That's so awesome.

[chris-uk]

We have a catch that will sit on the laptop when he thinks you aren't paying him enough attention. I've got a photo somewhere, if I find it I'll post it somewhere - "lap cat on a lap top laptop".

[kimbosaur]

That picture of Tourette makes me smile. It looks like you caught her in the middle of doing something she's not supposed to because she has that "oh crap" face.

[ConcinusMan]

Apparently Tank wanted me off the computer.
This is how he got my attention.
He's such a smart turtle.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tank211.jpg

Hmm... seems more like he wanted to warm up and Im sure the bottom of that notebook is nice and toasty.

[RedSidedSPR]

Perhaps but I dont doubt Steves take on it. Tank is a heck of a smart turtle.

[guidofatherof5]

That picture of Tourette makes me smile. It looks like you caught her in the middle of doing something she's not supposed to because she has that "oh crap" face.

Good observation but no. Not my Tourette:rolleyes:

[d_virginiana]

Perhaps it's a win-win; Tank gets to steal heat from the laptop and gets Steve's attention at the same time :D That's what my cat does... Only he likes to lay on the keyboard and send gibberish emails to people.

[guidofatherof5]

I have to share what I saw today.

I had just finished feeding a group and still had a night crawler in my hand so I looked in on my T.s.concinnus group. I opened the enclosure and a wonderful female came shooting out of the hide. I offered the worm and she grabbed it. She started to swallow it immediately but then stopped suddenly. It appeared she was having second thoughts about what she had grabbed.
As she was deciding what to do, the worm started moving forward to avoid those little needle teeth.
Now is when she decided she didn't want the worm and started gagging. She looked like a baby taking its first bite of baby food pea soup(if you're not a parent you probably have no idea what I'm talking about) The more she gagged the faster the worm moved forward.
This whole thing only took a few moments but I was rolling.
She finally got the worm out, gave me a bad look and returned to her hide.
They are so entertaining.

[katach]

That is funny! I can just picture that face and the head going back and forth.

[guidofatherof5]

That is funny! I can just picture that face and the head going back and forth.

No back and forth movement at all. She just kept opening her mouth wider and wider.
It looked like she was hoping the worm would just fall out.

[katach]

Funny.

[chris-uk]

No back and forth movement at all. She just kept opening her mouth wider and wider.
It looked like she was hoping the worm would just fall out.

Comedy gold.

[ConcinusMan]

Perhaps it's a win-win; Tank gets to steal heat from the laptop and gets Steve's attention at the same time :D That's what my cat does... Only he likes to lay on the keyboard and send gibberish emails to people.

Just make sure that your online shopping password isn't "remembered" or saved for "automatic log in" or else you might find huge charges on your credit card and cases of expensive cat food, catnip, etc. on your doorstep.:rolleyes:

[guidofatherof5]

I took Tank outside yesterday to meet someone knew. He wanted down so I set him in the grass.
He walked about 10 feet away, turned and came back to me and sat on my lap.
Such a cool turtle.

[RedSidedSPR]

Awesome. Awesome. Wait I said that.

[katach]

That's so cool!

[Mrs N1ntndo]

im just now caught up from a cpl days ago and I loved it all. I love the pic of tank under the comp. And with the cat thing. I put my keyboard on my lap to type and I have 4 cats and 2 that like to jup on my lap and do the same things. Now Steve , you should have a camera around your neck cause you have talked about this funny stuff and that is so awesome but U should take some other pics. I love hearing everyones stories. Great thingss to say. Thanks for the smiles.

[guidofatherof5]

My big girl Speckle is having her babies.
6 healthy little scrubs(T.radix) at this time. More to come.

Make that 9:D

Now 13.

[RedSidedSPR]

Awesome Steve!!

[snakehill]

Excellent!! :D

[guidofatherof5]

Excellent!! :D

This will take my mind off the snakes that are en-route to you.:D

[snakehill]

I did think of that!!;)

[guidofatherof5]

One baby is struggling. Not sure it will make it.
Working on it right now.

[snakehill]

Good luck!!!:)

[RedSidedSPR]

Hope he's ok... I hate when they dont make it.=/

[guidofatherof5]

Got her going. She was having trouble taking that first breath.
Working on another one, looks like the same problem.
Using the warm laptop as a way to heat them up.
Seems to be working well.

[Ryachanira]

Hope the baby does well!

[jitami]

Congrats Gpa Steve :) Good job getting the little struggler going!

[RedSidedSPR]

Got her going. She was having trouble taking that first breath.
Working on another one, looks like the same problem.
Using the warm laptop as a way to heat them up.
Seems to be working well.

Well that's awesome.

Hope the other ones ok too!!

[guidofatherof5]

Both are up and running now.
I lost count of how many babies now.:D

[snakehill]

Are they still coming?:confused:

[RedSidedSPR]

Sweeeeet!

[Chondro788]

Awesome Steve, you better get us some pics later!!! :D

[RedSidedSPR]

Or else.:mad:

:D

[katach]

Congrats Steve! Can't wait for pictures!........ No really I can't wait...... :D

[guidofatherof5]

Well here you go.:D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/sp_babies_2011.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/laptop.jpg

[katach]

Awwwwww! So cute! Love the shed photo, great size reference.

[snakehill]

Wow!!!!:D

[RedSidedSPR]

Cuteness!!! And awesomeness!!! And... Radixness!!! (says it all)

[guidofatherof5]

All little Iowa albino hets.;)

14 little hets.
Not sure if she's done or not.:)

[snakehill]

STEVE! Did you get my PM? They are here! They are healthy! They are beautiful!!!!! Thank you!!!!!!!!!:D

[RedSidedSPR]

Awesome snakehill!!!:D

Now buy a camera.:p

[RedSidedSPR]

All little Iowa albino hets.;)

14 little hets.
Not sure if she's done or not.:)

Sweet!

[Chondro788]

Very nice Steve!!! :)

[snakehill]

Awesome snakehill!!!:D

Now buy a camera.:p I was going to buy yours but you keep trying to sell it to someone else!!!:rolleyes:

[RedSidedSPR]

What? Whatever, I need a new one first anyhoo.

Go to Walmart and get a crappy one! Better than nothin'.:rolleyes:

[snakehill]

The cameras at Walmart aren't cheap IMO!:p

[RedSidedSPR]

$50-70 will get a decent one there. That's cheap for a camera.

[snakehill]

That's alot of money to me!!!:p

[RedSidedSPR]

Well me to, but if you need one it's worth it!!

I can't imagine keeping snakes without a camera.:p

[guidofatherof5]

The total was 16.
All are very active and alert. These are good size scrubs.
The two that had trouble at birth are up to speed with their siblings.
Speckle is doing very well. I wouldn't be surprised if she has another one of two over the next 24 hours.
Speckle is back in with her family.

[RedSidedSPR]

That's awesome Steve, glad they're all healthy.

[katach]

Very cool Steve! Congrats!

[guidofatherof5]

Tank turned 3 yesterday. He's becoming such a big turtle and more interactive.
My family is blessed to have a fine turtle like him living with us.
Long live king Tank.
This is Tank a few months after we got him. The second photo is 3 years later.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/TANK4.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/Tank_3_years_old_3_28_11.jpg

[katach]

What an awesome guy you have there!

[RedSidedSPR]

Only more so. Happy Birthday Tank!!

[brain]

An amazing turtle.

[guidofatherof5]

Tank has grown so much in the last year he's outgrown his enclosure.
Today I went out and purchased him something new.
As you can see from the photo Tank isn't very happy with is new digs.
I'm hoping he'll adjust over the next few days.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tank222.jpg

[RedSidedSPR]

That's his enclosure? I expected something much larger, although i guess he doesn't need it since he roams the house.

Cool!

[guidofatherof5]

It's a 25 gallon bucket. He could double in weight and still have plenty of room.
He uses it to get hydrated, eat and as a bathroom. Hopefully in that order.

[RedSidedSPR]

Yeah I was forgetting it's just a rest stop for him. Not a home.

I was just surprised by it being a big bucket thing.

[brain]

Is he really trying to "climb" out of the tub??

[guidofatherof5]

Is he really trying to "climb" out of the tub??

Yes and he did.

[RedSidedSPR]

He woulda had to just drop... Right?

[guidofatherof5]

Yes, onto his pillow and blanket.

[RedSidedSPR]

For some reason that made me smile.

Good. I was wondering much of a drop a big turtle can sustain... Theyre not exatly graceful...

[guidofatherof5]

These turtles are fearless. I have to make sure the basement door is closed as he will simply tumble down the steps.
These guys are tougher then nails. Obstacles are meaningless.

[RedSidedSPR]

Awesome. They can't "tuck" themselves in their shell very far can they? So that would be bad...

[guidofatherof5]

Over the last couple of days I seen VP(vanishing pattern) and Cherry-on-top cuddling.
From what I've seen I don't think I will brumate VP(female T.radix). I haven't seen a lock up but will just assume
it has happened.
They even took a bath together.
I wonder if there were some water sports going on. :D

[chris-uk]

You need a web cam in the snake room Steve. There's people on here that would pay-to-view. :D

[guidofatherof5]

Look what I found hiding in one of the big enclosure support beams.
This is one of Speckle's babies. The beam is 6.5 feet long.
I've tried baiting the little scrub out but so far it's not cooperating.
The little punk is glad to grab the food but refuses to come out in the open.
At least she's eating.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/lost1.jpg

[RedSidedSPR]

You mean you can't get her out? That's not In the cage right? Red got in a situation like that, and food worked, but I didn't let him grab it until he came out more and he came out....

[guidofatherof5]

This little one refuses to expose herself.
Right now I'm just happy she's eating.

[RedSidedSPR]

Pull her out by the food in her mouth.:D

[guidofatherof5]

Been there, done that.
Once she feels me pull on the food she lets go.
She's now sleeping in the middle of the beam.
She's a smart one.

[RedSidedSPR]

That's exactly how Red acted, but he's just such a glutton he completely forgets he doesn't want to come when he smell food and chases it out of the hole. But if she's not a pig I don't know. How long is the beam?

[guidofatherof5]

"A radix in the hand is worth two in the beam"
When I came into the big snake room I saw her hanging out.
I came up from behind her and grabbed her.
I surprised the crap right out of her, literally :D
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/lost1.jpg

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/in_the_hand.jpg

[RedSidedSPR]

Literally hehehe..

Glad she's out!

[chris-uk]

Glad she's out and not just in the beam poking her tongue out at you.

[katach]

You should name her Bimmer.

[guidofatherof5]

Cherry-on-top(right) continues to court VP(left).
Hoping for a lockup and some sweet Winter babies.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/happy_time1.jpg

[tress29]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/in_the_hand.jpg
Awe! She's not really blue is she? Does she have an "equally adorable" brother?!

[guidofatherof5]

No blue and she has 21 siblings. The group hasn't been sexed.

[guidofatherof5]

You should name her Bimmer.

I could and would but she's back in with her sibling and lost in the mix.
Kind of a moot point but thanks for the idea.

[tress29]

No blue Haa Ha, just a trick of the light when the picture was taken? I didn't think radix had a blue morph!

[guidofatherof5]

They do. Axanthic phase.

[ConcinusMan]

Yup. The axanthic radixes got that blue glow thing going on like the anery concinnus'. I know we've always been calling them "blue anery" (the concinnus') but that blue glow has me suspecting all along that they could be axanthic. Xanthosphores can be red/orange you know. They don't have be yellow.

However, I think that "blue" you're seeing on the baby radix is just iridescence.

[guidofatherof5]

It's been a long time since I've posted about our girl Lucky. She'll be 5 years old this Spring.
She's off food again but it's that time of the year for her.
We are hoping she'll breed next year and give us some beautiful babies.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/lucky17.jpg

[katach]

She's a stunner!

[guidofatherof5]

She's one of those awesome green head radixes.

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/busy.jpg

[kibakiba]

All of my snakes pile up in one corner when I'm preparing their food... Kind of funny to see all the desperate "starving" faces staring at you.

[RedSidedSPR]

all my snakes head for the glass and stare like a kid at a candy store. You can see them drooling!

[snakehill]

She's one of those awesome green head radixes. They are amazingly AWESOME!!!! ;)

[guidofatherof5]

Your Jade will grow to be a big girl being the daughter of Speckle.

[RedSidedSPR]

Steve do you have any photos of the snakes you sent snakehill?

Snakhill, just buy a camera already.:D You can't have two purdy radixes and not have a camera. The world doesn't work like that.:D

[guidofatherof5]

Yes but I hesitate to post them as I am not the owner anymore.;)

[snakehill]

Post away! She has grown already by the way! (Jesse, the engine in my eclipse just died! Need to take care of that first!!):cool:

[guidofatherof5]

Here's is my dog Lucy keeping an eye on this little Butler's (T.butleri).
Lucy usually assists in letting me kmow if anyone makes a break for it.
Lucy has also located a number of wild radixes that have made their way into the basement.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/dog.jpg

[EasternGirl]

That is unbelievably adorable! Thanks for sharing that!

[katach]

that is a great photo

[snakehill]

Yes but I hesitate to post them as I am not the owner anymore.;) You'll always be their Grandpa! :)

[guidofatherof5]

This group of young radixes have been nervous and jumpy.
With that in mind I've switched them to decaffeinated Earl Grey tea.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tea.jpg

[katach]

A wise move Steve! :D

[EasternGirl]

That is too cute!

[Mommy2many]

Love those faces!

[guidofatherof5]

Today I was assaulted by "Enforcer". I was feeding a few worms to the group and gave one to her. After eating her worm she returned for another.
As I explained to her that all the worms were gone she pulled back and stuck me full force on the face 3 times. These were closed mouth strikes and I must be honest I felt them.
I couldn't help but laughing at her as she climbed up onto my shoulder. I don't think she meant to hurt me but she did get her point across.
This is one big, strong snake.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/enforcer2.jpg

[EasternGirl]

Oh dear!

[ConcinusMan]

Oh she looks the part of enforcer too. You can definitely tell even just from the pic, who's in charge there.

[EasternGirl]

Right? Lol...

[guidofatherof5]

Usually stepping out to get the post means bills and more bills.
Today I felt like I hit the lottery.
Look what came to me from across the pond.
In my opinion one of the best reptile magazine on the planet.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/magazines.jpg

[BUSHSNAKE]

worlds rarest python...morelia carinata?

[guidofatherof5]

worlds rarest python...morelia carinata?

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/mag1.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

Thought I would post a photo of Tank in his water less you think he's a terrestrial turtle and not an aquatic one.:D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tankwater.jpg

[chris-uk]

Looks like the Great A'Tuin floating through space. He's lost the disc though. Although if he is the Great A'Tuin you've answered the age old question as to whether the star turtle is a boy or girl.

[Stefan-A]

Wouldn't bet on there being a lot of Pratchett fans here.

[chris-uk]

Wouldn't bet on there being a lot of Pratchett fans here.
There has to be a few more. :)

[EasternGirl]

Good Omens...I have it...but I haven't read it yet. Need a new book to read though...so perhaps I will start. You are referring to Discworld I presume?

[chris-uk]

Good Omens, great book but not Discworld. If you want recommendations of Discworld books to read drop me a PM. I wouldn't advice reading them in order, the first couple aren't the best.

[angrygamer]

Look what I found hiding in one of the big enclosure support beams.
This is one of Speckle's babies. The beam is 6.5 feet long.
I've tried baiting the little scrub out but so far it's not cooperating.
The little punk is glad to grab the food but refuses to come out in the open.
At least she's eating.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/lost1.jpg





Glad she's out and not just in the beam poking her tongue out at you.

This is too hilarious, I imagine a smart - mouth Garter flicking her tongue at you in defiance every time you walked by.

[guidofatherof5]

This is my awesome "Enforcer" Great snake.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/enforcer5.jpg

[Didymus20X6]

This group of young radixes have been nervous and jumpy.
With that in mind I've switched them to decaffeinated Earl Grey tea.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tea.jpg

Captain Jean-Luc would be proud!

[Selkielass]

Do you drink loose leaf tea?
I have some most excellent Harrods Earl grey that i can't drink- Earl grey just doesn't agree with me.
Good to see Enforcer is doing well.

[guidofatherof5]

Do you drink loose leaf tea?
I have some most excellent Harrods Earl grey that i can't drink- Earl grey just doesn't agree with me.
Good to see Enforcer is doing well.

I could be persuaded to. That's like asking PINJOHN if he'd like another cup of coffee.
Both my Son (Kale) and I enjoy our Earl Grey.

[guidofatherof5]

While looking in on one of my big girls groups, I saw Enforcer with a far off gaze in her eyes.
Just then I heard a rather disgusting sound. In wake of the noise I found this steaming pile of poo.
Enforcer feels much better now. :D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/poop11.jpg

[EasternGirl]

Thanks for sharing that Steve :p. Cee Cee likes to do that in the water dish right after I put fresh water in for her. It's her way of saying thank you and ha ha.

[RicMartin]

TMI, says I.
Just kidding, I clean up after milk snakes, the garters are a "breeze of fresh air" in comparison.

[PINJOHN]

While looking in on one of my big girls groups, I saw Enforcer with a far off gaze in her eyes.
Just then I heard a rather disgusting sound. In wake of the noise I found this steaming pile of poo.
Enforcer feels much better now. :D


http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/poop11.jpg

enforcer rap
i feel like i'm buzzing this morning
i'm feeling as light as a bird
it's because of the parcel i just left behind
Hey Steve..can you clean up this turd.

[aquamentus_11]

Data is resting in the fridge at this time. I don't think there will be need for the freezer.

Were you inducing torpor by putting her in the fridge? What would the potential benefits be in this instance? Slowing metabolism? I may have completely missed a nuance, but just curious about the freezer.....somehow beneficial or because she was on her way out and that would be a gentler way of speeding the process?

[chris-uk]

Were you inducing torpor by putting her in the fridge? What would the potential benefits be in this instance? Slowing metabolism? I may have completely missed a nuance, but just curious about the freezer.....somehow beneficial or because she was on her way out and that would be a gentler way of speeding the process?
Fridge for a few hours slows them down to a hibernation state, the freezer is a relatively quick method which is guaranteed to euthanise them. Not something anyone wants to do, and not a subject that tends to get fully discussed or explained, but if you keep enough snakes for long enough it's something that will be necessary at some time.

[guidofatherof5]

Were you inducing torpor by putting her in the fridge? What would the potential benefits be in this instance? Slowing metabolism? I may have completely missed a nuance, but just curious about the freezer.....somehow beneficial or because she was on her way out and that would be a gentler way of speeding the process?

Torpor? Yes.
Hoping to save them from any discomfort in the freezing process.

[EasternGirl]

It's a method for euthanizing in situations in which the snake is dying, critically ill, gravely injured, etc. A method in which the goal is to end the suffering in the most humane way possible. I hope I explained it well. I hope I never have to do it...but as a snake owner...I probably will have to at some point.

[kibakiba]

That's what I did with ember... I put him in the fridge for a few hours, and then the freezer. I didn't want to do it that way... But the only other option was smashing his head( that I knew of) and I couldn't bring myself to do that.

[aquamentus_11]

Torpor is just the term for the temporary, semi-hibernation state reptiles go into when they cool down. I'm sorry for bringing up such a sad subject; I didn't know.

[EasternGirl]

I'm glad you did it the way you did, Chantel. It's okay...aquamentus...you didn't know...and you asked a fair question. I asked the same question because I wanted to know how it was done. It is something that snake owners need to know.

[guidofatherof5]

We've all heard the saying "don't bite the hand that feeds you" Well, this snake (T sirtalis concinnus) didn't get the memo.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/nice6.jpg

[EasternGirl]

Might want to tell him.."Don't try to swallow the hand that feeds you"! Lol....it looks like he is trying to get the hand down his throat! :D

[kibakiba]

That's how Snap is... She's been really nippy lately.

[ConcinusMan]

I know better than to reach my hand into a group of young concinnus' in feeding mode. Once they're worked into a frenzy, they don't bother to check if it's food or not. They just bite anything and start swallowing.:cool:

[kibakiba]

Snap is never in feeding mode unless I eat fish in my office, or when it is feeding day... Every other day she just bites everything. Mama moves in front of her? bite's her.. Change the water? bites my hand! She's extreamly fat even though I've bit her on a diet. Pigsnake!
Are any of yours like that Steve? Nippy and bitey with not food? Haha.

[ConcinusMan]

Steve's concinnus' are starting to get that greenish blue thing going on the throat, I see. It's that Clark / Cowlitz county, WA signature. Yeah, those babies are "classic" lower Columbia snakes alright. Just like Big Bertha.:D

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tsp21.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/king_tank.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

While feeding my largest group of female radixes I noticed my girl Lucky wasn't out. Lucky is a very special snake to both myself and my daughter Gabby.
I went looking for her and found her under the hide. She was sleeping but woke up quickly. After a few moments she took a couple of pinkies which made me feel better. Looking at her I remembered the baby snake that had been found many years ago.
At that moment I knew it was time to get her out for some fresh air, sunshine and photos.
The first photo is of two beautiful girls. Gabby and her buddy Lucky.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//628/medium/lucky_girl.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//628/medium/Lucky_yawn.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//628/medium/lucky_one.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//628/medium/lucky_girl3.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//628/medium/lucky_girl1.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

This up and coming red T.radix female is looking good and continues to mature. I'm hoping she'll be ready to breed within the next couple of seasons.
I have 2 male red radixes that are looking as good and should be ready to breed at that time.
The future of red radixes on the Ranch is looking good.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//675/medium/redone6.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//675/medium/redone5.jpg

[chris-uk]

"The future is bright. The future is red radix."

[BUSHSNAKE]

nice looking family there sir

[EasternGirl]

Is that second pic of Lucky too? Very cool pic....she looks vicious in that photo! Gabby looks so much like her Dad. :) Very lovely girls you have, Steve.

[guidofatherof5]

Is that second pic of Lucky too? Very cool pic....she looks vicious in that photo! Gabby looks so much like her Dad. :) Very lovely girls you have, Steve.

That whole series of photos is Lucky. That was the first time she was in her oak tree this year. She was tired and I caught a yawn.

Gabby is a great daughter. Thanks for your comment.

[katach]

Great shots!

[tress29]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//675/medium/redone5.jpg
My erythristic eastern is this red now after his shed. It's his first confirmed shed since I got him. I had three sheds in the last three weeks, so I figure one each...

[Selkielass]

Gorgeous gals, all of them!
Any breeding plans for Lucky? -or is she strictly a spoiled pet? (You know I think good temperament is as important a breeding trait as color.)

[guidofatherof5]

Gorgeous gals, all of them!
Any breeding plans for Lucky? -or is she strictly a spoiled pet? (You know I think good temperament is as important a breeding trait as color.)

Lucky is in with my albino male at this time. Haven't seen any activity but time will tell.

[nitrogen15]

You've got some lovely garter girls. Any dark phases on the ranch?

[Eight]

You really do have some good looking garters. The more I see T.radix examples, the more I like them. How many garters do you have if I may ask?

[EasternGirl]

Lol....I always love this question. :D

[guidofatherof5]

You really do have some good looking garters. The more I see T.radix examples, the more I like them. How many garters do you have if I may ask?


Lol....I always love this question. :D

Under 1000:D

[Eight]

lol is that a 'just about'

[guidofatherof5]

lol is that a 'just about'

What's in a number:D

[Eight]

What's in a number:D

Absolutely nothing of course. Its just the whole radix ranch thing. In my head I imagine a prairie with a little corral and hundreds of tiny snake stables. Thinking about it always makes me smile and feel like an idiot at the same time.

[kibakiba]

I'm sure that's pretty much how it is. He has a ton of vivs and tanks all around his house with tons of snakes and other things, like turtles, I believe.

[guidofatherof5]

Absolutely nothing of course. Its just the whole radix ranch thing. In my head I imagine a prairie with a little corral and hundreds of tiny snake stables. Thinking about it always makes me smile and feel like an idiot at the same time.

After a long day of herding radixes we settle down for some vittles around the campfire.
Last week we darn near had a radix stampede.:eek::D

[ConcinusMan]

What's in a number:D

Nothing, if the number is a lone zero.:rolleyes:

[kueluck]

Steve, I just wanna say I love your Youtube site. I especially love the babies feeding on the worms.

[guidofatherof5]

Thanks
Feeding babies is my favorite time. So is feeding adults.
So is sitting and watching them. So is holding them :D

[Eight]

I can't wait to hold some adults. Your a lucky man with so many to watch :)

[ConcinusMan]

Thanks
Feeding babies is my favorite time. So is feeding adults.
So is sitting and watching them. So is holding them :D

...So is chasing them down when a bunch make a break for it.:D

[Mommy2many]

So is having them come inside to help themselves to snacks! :)

[ConcinusMan]

found one in the garage this morning (northwestern). totally unexpected. :confused:

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tired_tank.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

Sunday morning my good friend Mark and one of his co-worker(Richard) came by the Ranch. It was a quick stop to drop off some frozen rats and then they were off to do some herping in Nebraska. Later in the evening they returned for dinner and some snake room time but first they spent some time with Tank. Tank was his social self and seemed to want the attention.
Mark and Richard caught and released a total of 85 radixes. They kept 3, 2-red and one axanthic (B/W). The axanthic is a carbon copy of my B/W's. Looked like a second year male.
This morning Mark and Richard headed off to another Nebraska town to continue the trip.
It was nice having company around the Ranch.
Here's Richard and Tank.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/richard1.jpg

[ConcinusMan]

Tank is like, "look at me! I'm superman!" :p

[Dan72]

Steve if the guys found a B&W like yours, WC and CB, doesn't that "mean" something???

[Invisible Snake]

Hey Steve I don't mean to be nosy but to what reptiles are you feeding the rats to?

[guidofatherof5]

2- adult hypomelanistic bull snakes.

[ConcinusMan]

Steve if the guys found a B&W like yours, WC and CB, doesn't that "mean" something???

I've seen pictures of WC B&W radixes too somewhere. I think it means that they are probably at least as common as red radixes perhaps.

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/grackle3.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

It's time for me to sing the praises of my common snapping turtle Tank.
When I left the house early this afternoon Tank was sleeping under the bed in my youngest daughter's bedroom.
He went in there this morning after waking up and getting a drink. He crawled under a blanket and went to sleep.
I returned 6 hours later to find Tank still sleeping. I woke him up and told him to come out and get a drink and get hydrated.
I then went out into the living room and got on the forum.
Not 5 minutes later an almost 15 pound snapping turtle came walking out of the bedroom. He walked right passed my laptop and got in his water.
He got a drink of water and went to the bathroom.
He knows exactly what to do and when. He is one smart turtle and I'm honored to have him as part of my family.

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/Tankhungry.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tank_slumber.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

I'm not sure what's going on here at the Ranch but in the last 7 days I've found 3 wild snakes in the basement.
Here is number 3 found in the laundry room.
This is a good looking green head male T.radix.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//744/medium/new_male12.jpghttp://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//744/medium/new_male3.jpg

[katach]

What a handsome little boy! They just know where to go to get pampered. It's the ranch spa. :D

[kibakiba]

He's a real cutie!

[Dan72]

What a handsome little boy! They just know where to go to get pampered. It's the ranch spa. :D

Yeah, at this point there is a snake underground movement in the western part of the state where all radix know the way to the ranch. You can hear them say to one another along the trail, "Go there and if your real lucky a man will take you in and fill your every need."

[guidofatherof5]

Yeah, at this point there is a snake underground movement in the western part of the state where all radix know the way to the ranch. You can hear them say to one another along the trail, "Go there and if your real lucky a man will take you in and fill your every need."

I do what I can.:D

[guidofatherof5]

I love my boy Tank(Common snapping turtle) but today he had an accident on the carpet.
First let me tell you that his poop in water is horrible but not in the water it becomes toxic.
Tank very rarely has this happen but when it does I feel like calling HazMat:D

[katach]

Ewwww.

[ProXimuS]

Ugh...The things we put up with for our animal kids....:rolleyes::p

[guidofatherof5]

Ewwww.


Ugh...The things we put up with for our animal kids....:rolleyes::p

You have no idea:D Really, you don't:D

[chris-uk]

You have no idea:D Really, you don't:D

Good on Steve. Tell the forum what you told me on Skype about saving the carpet from Tank. :)

[guidofatherof5]

You have no idea:D Really, you don't:D


Good on Steve. Tell the forum what you told me on Skype about saving the carpet from Tank. :)

Well, let me put it this way. It's very warm when it comes out and yes I saved the carpet that time.:D

[kimbosaur]

......gross!!:rolleyes:

[guidofatherof5]

......gross!!:rolleyes:

:D Not even close :D

[EasternGirl]

I love the tankster! And as far as those wild snakes that are coming in to your basement go...I agree that word must be out on the snake street about where to go if you want to live the good life! Also...perhaps they are smelling some females! :D Word must also be out that your ranch is a good place to go to find some fine garter females! :D

[guidofatherof5]

Gabby came it from the back deck with a nice looking red male radix in her hand. She said it was sunning.
I'll post some photos tomorrow.

[Invisible Snake]

You have so many garters living on or near your property you should charge them rent! lol jk :D

[guidofatherof5]

You have so many garters living on or near your property you should charge them rent! lol jk :D

No, no, no. I want only happy guests on the Ranch. Rent might scare some off. :D
"Go into the light, all are welcome, all are welcome":D

[guidofatherof5]

Thought I'd post a photo of the big dog sleeping on the floor.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/Tank_butt.jpg

[ProXimuS]

How cool, love his long tail:cool:

[guidofatherof5]

He is the most content turtle I've ever worked with. He has no worries.

[ProXimuS]

He seems like he doesn't live up to the name "snapping turtle":p

[guidofatherof5]

He seems like he doesn't live up to the name "snapping turtle":p

You are correct. He is far from it and I'm glad.;)
Never thought I would ever have a hands-on snapping turtle.
I'm really looking forward to the next 30 years with Tank. It should be a trip.
Sounds like a good story for a book.

[ProXimuS]

I'd read it!


Have you had him since a baby?

[Invisible Snake]

Is Tank friendly towards strangers or does he act like a guard dog when people come over?

[Dan72]

Gabby came it from the back deck with a nice looking red male radix in her hand. She said it was sunning.
I'll post some photos tomorrow.

Can't wait! Love the red and I never see them over here. Is that the range of them or just no luck? Are they over this far east Steve?

[guidofatherof5]

Can't wait! Love the red and I never see them over here. Is that the range of them or just no luck? Are they over this far east Steve?

Mark would be the best person to ask but I do believe there is a red population in Des Moines.

[guidofatherof5]

While in the snake room I saw a radix shadow on the blinds that cover the east window.
I slowly raised the blind and took this photo of the little window peeking pervert radix.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/window_peeker.jpg

[ProXimuS]

Hehe he's trying to get a peek at your beautiful girls:p

[katach]

That is too cute!! He is wondering if the spa is open yet. I hope he has an appointment.

[Mommy2many]

He's looking for the spa and buffet that he has heard about on the "street"

[guidofatherof5]

All I had to do was yell "swim time" and the big girls hit the pool. Of course, dipping a worm in the water might have something to do with it.:D
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/pool_time.jpg

[Steveo]

While looking in on one of my big girls groups, I saw Enforcer with a far off gaze in her eyes.
Just then I heard a rather disgusting sound. In wake of the noise I found this steaming pile of poo.
Enforcer feels much better now. :D

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/poop11.jpg

Oh god. I was going through this thread from the beginning and was taking a big bite from a protein bar just as I scrolled to this picture. I think I'm done with lunch now.

[guidofatherof5]

Saw one of the funniest things yet from one of my radixes.
Here it is. I saw Peachy alone at the cold end of the enclosure. She said today so I knew she'd be hungry.
I took her out of the enclosure and feed her two large night crawlers. As she was finishing her last worm I put her back in.
Realizing someone had food three big girls rushed to the cold end.
Daisy started to get close to Peachy so I tapped on the substrate to get her attention. As she turned around her body brushed up against a pile of poo. I'm guessing this pile was cold and Daisy thought it was a night crawler so she grabbed the pile in her mouth.
I busted out laughing when I saw the look on her face as she shook her head to spit it out. My poor Daisy.:D

[katach]

I think that was her comeuppance for biting your daughter....

[guidofatherof5]

I think that was her comeuppance for biting your daughter....

Never looked at it that way. You might just have something there Kat.;):D

[ProXimuS]

Hehe maybe she'll learn to calm down a bit, or else she might get another mouthful of......:p

[guidofatherof5]

I thought I would introduce this beautiful lite phase green radix. She is growing up with the B/W.
As you can see she's enjoying a nice night crawler.
She has a wonderful clean pattern and will do well here at the Ranch.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/light_green_phase.jpg

[katach]

Oooooo She is really pretty!

[InsanePirateDragon]

I second that, a pretty little girl.

[ProXimuS]

That's a good looking girl! I like that picture especially :D

[Selkielass]

I love the clarity of her pattern. Happy looking gal.

[guidofatherof5]

Saturday morning I put my son to work tilling the garden up. I was in need of it as we dump all our used aspen bedding in there.
While my son was doing the hard work I supervised. As he tilled I saw a small radix enter the front tines and out the back. I rushed in to find this beautiful little female no worse for the wear. I did take her in for a couple days of observation. Tough as nail these snakes are.
I've named her Tiller.;)
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/tiller.jpg