Some Problems Needing Attention in Raising Snakes
ZHONGSHAN G.H.L. TRADING CO., LTD. , https://www.ghltrade.com
The future of the snake farming industry looks bright, but there is still a lot of room for improvement in the technical aspects of snake rearing. Based on years of hands-on research and experience, the author has identified several key factors that should be considered when raising snakes effectively:
First, the design of the snake farm and the snake houses must be well-planned. Some farms simply copy the natural environment by using open-air enclosures. However, compared to wild conditions, these artificial setups often have much higher stocking densities. Without proper separation, this can lead to overcrowding, stress, and the spread of diseases. To avoid these issues, it's better to keep snakes in small wooden boxes or caves, which helps reduce stress and maintain healthier living conditions.
Second, using snake boxes is a practical and cost-effective method. These boxes take up little space, require minimal investment, and are easy to construct. However, the size of each box should be carefully chosen based on the snake’s natural behavior—such as their need for warmth and humidity. The box should match the snake’s size to ensure comfort and promote healthy growth.
Third, timing is crucial when it comes to breeding and capturing snakes. For example, if you're collecting from the wild, it's best to do so before May. From June to July, snake embryos grow larger, making it riskier to catch them during this time, as it could harm the eggs or cause them to die. Overwintering and fattening should be done between August and September, when snakes are more active and feed more efficiently, leading to better growth and higher economic returns.
Fourth, feeding practices should be adjusted according to the season. The peak feeding period for snakes is usually between August and October. By September, they reach their maximum weight, so it's important to provide enough food during this time to support their growth and health.
Finally, managing temperature and humidity during hibernation is essential. If the temperature is too high, snakes may become active and burn energy unnecessarily. If it's too low, weaker individuals may freeze. Therefore, it's recommended to keep the hibernation area at a stable temperature between 12°C and 18°C, with humidity levels between 60% and 80%. On warmer days, it's good to open windows slightly to improve air circulation, but care must be taken to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
By following these guidelines, snake farmers can significantly improve the success rate of their operations while ensuring the well-being of the animals.