New Friend

[Kevinh583]

I found a new friend. He was lying across the driveway playing dead, it didn’t move until I grabbed him. So now I’m considering keeping him as a companion for my female ribbon as long as the size difference isn’t too great. He is probably 5-6 inches shorter but really thin, maybe about1/3 the girth. There is not that big of a difference in head size though. Is this a good idea? Would a wc snake feel more secure/happier with a partner?


If it is ok, is there any particular way I need to introduce the new snake? The only advice I've found on here so far is to quarantine, is that the only thing to worry about? I don't need to let them get to know each other, go on a few dates/have a few drinks, before moving 'em in together?


Also, it'd be great if I could get some help sexing the snake, I’m thinking maybe male.

[Kevinh583]

Also, I noticed something strange going on with the ventral scales on this snake. In a couple places there is a dark spot under one scale and some scale seperation. On a couple it also has some brown coloring between scales. Almost looks like it is rusting between the scales. Does anybody have an idea what it might be (based on my poor description and a bad photograph)?

You can't see it very well in the picture but there is a distinct dark spot under the scale that is lifting up slightly and some brown along the edge.

[Hollis_Steed]

Great looking snake! Good find!

[guidofatherof5]

Quarantine and similar size once they are introduced.
A fecal check before any introductions would be great.

I wouldn't worry too much about that belly scale issue.
See how it looks after the next shed. If you want you can apply some triple antibiotic ointment to it or some Silver Sulfadiazine.

[kibakiba]

That's a beautiful snake! It looks to be a male, his tail doesnt start tapering a bit like a females would. A more experienced member could give you a more accurate answer. I don't know about the problem with his scales, it looks like scale rot in a way to me, but usually it looks... More, you know, rotted. Both Snakey and Mama had scale rot when I got them, but it was pretty bad. I would say if you have the money, take it to a vet to get it checked out.

[ConcinusMan]

That is an awesome ribbon! I'm also inclined to believe it is a male. I would keep him separate until you can be sure that he is healed and doesn't have any conditions that could be spread to other snakes. After that time, I don't believe there is any introductions needed. Just put him in with her. They'll take care of the socializing themselves. Just make sure they both have plenty of personal space and hides.

cool find!