Expert: Cecelia Ericson - 12/12/2003

Question
Hi. I'm thinking of buying a tortoise or snake (possibly a corn snake), but I have a fatigue condition. I want to find out the minimum effort I will have to expend to care for a snake properly. In particular, I am wondering how long a small or medium size (not large) snake can survive comfortably without any care at all. For example, if I could clean the cage/box and feed the snake only once a week, then I would probably buy one. Also, can they tolerate being handled frequently? I'd love to play with one.

David


Answer
To: David Spector
From: Cece Ericson
( American Inter. Rattlesnake Museum & New Mexico Wildlife Rescue Of Albuquerque )

  David,

  There alot of small sizes snakes that you might wanted to have for a pet. They are Corn Snakes and Ribbon Snakes, Rat Snakes, Garter Snakes. These are the best ones to try looking into and raise for a pet for your own. Yes snake eat one time a week with only one mice for there dinner. These are the best kind to be tame to be handle everyday.
  So, this is my best imformationto give. These snake only grow up to 2-4ft long in length. They  only eat mice that are bought at the pet store. So, any of these snakes will be perfect to keep. I hope you find the right one that will fit your company and pet for Christmas to enjoy. If there any other question. Please let me know, I'll try my best to answer them for you. Have a wonderful year of Christmas. Take Care and good luck.


     Sincerely,

           Cece Ericson