Hello from Houston :D

[ConcinusMan]

I've found it's difficult to find ribbons.

Funny, it's not difficult at all from WA to CA. They are by far the most common Thamnophis species found in pet stores. Petco's around the Portland/Vancouver area have them for $5-$10 each summer. Some are just black and yellow. Some look like yours.

I'm fairly new to this forum myself and have discovered that gold fish isn't the most ideal thing to feed to ribbons

Definitely true. The pet stores tend to feed them on the cheapest food they will eat. In other words, goldfish. But keep in mind thay they are usually only there a short time. It's goldfish in the long term that is harmful.

I've begun to switch over to other sources. My largest ribbon accepted mice without hesitation and my smaller ones are very reluctant. Difference in character I suppose.

It's not a difference in "character" but most likely a difference in their genetic makeup. Response to the smell of prey items has been shown to have a genetic link in Thamnophis species. Even I have noticed that the preferred prey varies from population to population, even among the same species.

[EasternGirl]

I think that it's always best to feed a varied diet, but yes, there are certain safe fish and unsafe fish...those that contain thiamine and such...and as Steve said, with fish fillet it's best to use a supplement of calcium. I also know people who use B1 supplements to counteract any thiamine deficiencies. I prefer to feed a balanced diet of pinkies, fish, and worms.

Earthworms and nightcrawlers are one in the same.

[guidofatherof5]

I think that it's always best to feed a varied diet, but yes, there are certain safe fish and unsafe fish...those that contain thiamine and such...and as Steve said, with fish fillet it's best to use a supplement of calcium. I also know people who use B1 supplements to counteract any thiamine deficiencies. I prefer to feed a balanced diet of pinkies, fish, and worms.

Earthworms and nightcrawlers are one in the same.

With reference to adding a supplement to counteract the thiaminase and its effects. There was a discussion about that a couple years back but not much came of the idea. I don't think any studies/evidence was presented one way or the other.
I would have to say you shouldn't feed any fish containing thiaminase if it can be avoided. Especially over a long period of time.
Just my opinion.

I'll see if I can find that thread.

[kibakiba]

Technically, they aren't. Earth worms are pinky coloured, and night crawlers are purple... Earth worms are usually pretty small (in my experience) and night crawlers tend to be monsters.
But both are safe to feed, and both are eaten with great happiness and gluttony.

[mustang]

Welcome, im Robert, n im from San Antonio! your not actually that far! wow, it's been a while since i've seen a new texan poster.(someone online, not the paper kind)

[ProXimuS]

Welcome, im Robert, n im from San Antonio! your not actually that far! wow, it's been a while since i've seen a new texan poster.(someone online, not the paper kind)

Hi mustang! If you're from San Antonio, have you ever been to the Snake Farm?! It's in New Braunfels. They have all kind of snakes and other reptiles and lots of other animals. Its aaawesoome!

[EasternGirl]

Oh...okay...I thought they were the same worm. Well as long as they are both safe to feed.

[ProXimuS]

I always thought night crawlers were big earthworms

[kibakiba]

I had a night crawler farm for a couple months, baby night crawlers look just like large night crawlers... Only really tiny. I think I have a picture of one on here... Time to look!

[kibakiba]