snake habitat

would like to know what size of habitat is required for a 5 foot python. and at what temperature its needs to be. also how often to feed.

 

My friend had one and built his habitat out of plywood and plexiglass. It was pretty big, I would say 4' X 8' and about 4' deep and lined it with artificial turf. One thing you want to be sure and have is a hiding place for your snake. Another thing is a watering hole for them to get into. Since these snakes are from tropical climates you'll want to keep the temp around 80º, thus you will need a heat lamp. For our small snake we used a heat pad under the tank.

He would feed it maybe 2 medium sized rats a week.

I would highly reccomend talking to your local pet shop that deals in reptiles and even gettin a book at the library to read up on them.

I'm no snake professional and this is just from experience.

 

Hi-
The answers to your questions depend on what species of python you are considering. Some are larger than others.

Before you go out and get a reptile, be absolutely sure that you are able to give it the specialized care that it requires and are able to commit to looking after it for 20 or more years. If the snake is one of the larger python species it will continue to grow and will require larger and larger enclosures, which means a lot of $$ to give it a proper habitat (which may end up taking up a large chunk of your home). Many reptiles require more care than dogs or cats as they have specialized needs. You will also need to find a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles (more $$).

Snakes are very powerful and will escape given half a chance, so you will need a very secure enclosure. You will also have to be prepared to feed mice, rats or rabbits to your snake.

Here is a link that may give you some info (assuming you are speaking of a ball python, that is):
http://my.pclink.com/~dkelley/python.html#int

 

I just picked up a large snake like animal....I think it is a Boa. it is about 7 ft long and looks pretty dangerous.

I have it in my 2 year old daughter's bathroom right now. Don't worry, the door is closed. Ah Doy!

What do they eat and can I put it in the backyard?

 

On keeping that snake outdoors I would check local code and see what they will allow. Be careful with that guy in the bathroom, it could accidentally go down the toilet.

 

Hi-
Call your local animal control or SPCA equivalent - someone has probably lost it and is searching for it.

Reptiles can carry diseases such as salmonella, so make sure you wash after handling it, and use caution if you allow children to handle it.

 

What happens if my 2 year old actually ATE it? She seems to have bit off the tale that was under the door crack thing.

Oh what a mess.