A ~ C ~ S~N~A~K~E~S Snake Breeders Based in Leicestershire, England, UK

JAPANESE RAT SNAKE CARE GUIDE Elaphe Climacophora Introduction The Japanese Ratsnake is a semi arboreal species of the colubrid family which comes in both a blotched and a striped form with some specimens appearing to be a combination of the two.  The colour of the wild type is highly variable from quite dull olive to bright greens with flashes of yellows with some individuals being grey or even blue.  Most specimens, particularly the striped form, have grey heads.  Ventral colour can range from white to very dark blue which often appears black. One of their natural food items is eggs and they have developed a number of modified vertebrae which are used to break the egg as they swallow it. This species is active mainly at dawn and dusk (crepuscular) and is also known as Blue or Green General, Climac or in the case of the albino, the Japanese name is Shirohebi. Experience Level Intermediate Temperament Known for being a little nippy, especially hatchlings, however, ours are often shy and a little nervous but normally prefer to musk and then flee rather than bite. Naturally Occuring Variants Blotched, Striped, Albino Expected Adult Length 120 to 160cm Recommended Housing Vivarium or plastic tubs We prefer to use tubs as we found them to be much better to keep clean. Other requirements : -Suitably large water bowl for them to drink and bathe -A minimum of 2 hides (1 in the cool end and 1 in the warm end) one of which could be moist -Climbing branches are advantageous but not essential Temperature Range 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F) We have found that even a small drop from this temperature can cause some Japanese Ratsnakes to go off their food. Recommended Heating Viv - Guarded Ceramic heater or heat mat Tub - Heat mat Whichever method is used, the temperature should be controlled by a suitable thermostat and monitored using a digital thermometer Origin Japan and Kunashir Island Natural Environment Barns, Houses and other Buildings, Forests, Rice Fields, Bamboo Thickets, Dry Stone Walls, Grasslands, Ditches and Near Water Recommended Substrate We prefer to use Aspen. Natural Diet Rodents, Birds and their Eggs, Frogs, Lizards, Snakes and Squirrels Primary Captive Diet Rodents Recommended links www.ratsnakefoundation.org This care guide has been written by us at AC Snakes for your information and guidance.   It will be updated and expanded as regularly as we are able, however it should not be used as your only source of care information.   Prior to purchasing any animal it is strongly recommended that you research extensively to ensure that you can provide the correct care for your pet.   Last updated May 2012

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