Social behaviour in snakes

[Stefan-A]

So you don't think there might be a less fantastic explanation for their behavior?

[Snake lover 3-25]

not really... meadow has been exposed to every situation possible and has never acted like this.... she's been temp. housed with browns, garters, corns, and even baby milks... and has just ignored them but the second she was put in sootys cage she began to look for her... i don't know how you would explain it otherwise....

[Zephyr]

Well, we'll see what my science fair results tell us. ^^

[jeanette]

Actually, that's exactly what it sounds like. You also need to consider that since most hibernating species mate immediately after hibernation and usually in close proximity to the den, using the same den as your close relatives increases the possibility of inbreeding, which over time reduces the genetic diversity and increases the risk of the whole population being knocked out. Something has to make it worth the risk, but sentimentality offers no real payback. A good den, on the other hand, does, since it increases the chances of survival.

And let it be known that Austin Stevens is one of the most annoying people walking the Earth.

lol just catching up........................Austim stevens is GOD!!!!! i loooove him and hes been into snakes since the guy was 12 years old, when he was in the african army he was dubbed the snakeman because of his unusual way with snakes, that ability gave Stevens his first job with snakes at a zoo even though he didnt have the qualifications back then for the job. he did however qualify within the following 6 years of taking that job. there is an awful lot that isnt widely known about the man. and one thing is for sure he is dedicated in his love of reptiles.

[adamanteus]

I know he picks snakes up by the tail-tip, which anyone who knows snakes will tell you is SO wrong. He is a poor mimic of Steve Irwin. A floppy haired fop... but a rather good photographer.
He's quite entertaining on the telly, but he's not taken at all seriously by the professionals.

[jeanette]

I know he picks snakes up by the tail-tip, which anyone who knows snakes will tell you is SO wrong. He is a poor mimic of Steve Irwin. A floppy haired fop... but a rather good photographer.
He's quite entertaining on the telly, but he's not taken at all seriously by the professionals.

he has immense respect for snakes and is far more qualified with snakes and reptiles than pretty much anyone on here. there isnt much he doesnt know about snakes. i dont think anyone can knock him for the eduction he has tried to give those who live in poorer countries about preserving their species. He handles venomous snakes in the same way i have seen many of hots keepers handle them. infact i saw a programme with steve irwin where he handled a rattler in exactly the same way. steve irwin was a great person but he didnt have austin stevens experience with snakes. steve irwin was definately the man when it came to crocs though

[adamanteus]

he has immense respect for snakes and is far more qualified with snakes and reptiles than pretty much anyone on here.

Obviously, you have no idea who some of the people are on this forum!!!!

[jeanette]

Obviously, you have no idea who some of the people are on this forum!!!!

note that i said pretty much......................
unless we all have the degrees in herpetology and zoology and the decades of experience.............which would stand to reason that the list of possibilities would be pretty small

And im sure we dont have to come across as argumentative

[Zephyr]

I know he picks snakes up by the tail-tip, which anyone who knows snakes will tell you is SO wrong. He is a poor mimic of Steve Irwin. A floppy haired fop... but a rather good photographer.
He's quite entertaining on the telly, but he's not taken at all seriously by the professionals.

Amen brotha. XD

[Zephyr]

unless we all have the degrees in herpetology and zoology and the decades of experience

*Points to James.* :P