Some general questions about BRB's

[daddy and son]

My son and I are looking at getting a BRB this year. We had started to do it last year but got a couple of corns instead. They're a little easier and gave us some good experience with snakes. Those two are a year old now and thriving so we're ready to add to the family. I have a few general questions about BRB's for anyone familiar with them.
In doing my research, I've read that they can be snappy as babies. Would we perhaps be better getting a yearling? Do older ones snap until they get used to the individual or once they get used to people pretty much stop altogether? My son is 8 and is very good at handling the corns we have, thinking a yearling BRB that is used to being held might be the way to go. Idea? Opinions?

[snake man12]

I wouldn't recommend brbs for an 8yr old as you only have experience with corns. They have high humidity requirements and can be nippy as yearlings but they do calm down. I would suggest you look into ball pythons.

[Strutter769]

I have to agree with Zach. Rainbow Boas are beautiful, but do require a higher level of care than other species and don't really make a good first snake. I agree with starting with a corn snake for example.

Whichever you choose, you're in the right place for advice and to get answers to your questions (some of which may actually be correct!)

Good luck and keep us posted!

[iBaman]

I have to agree with Zach. Rainbow Boas are beautiful, but do require a higher level of care than other species and don't really make a good first snake. I agree with starting with a corn snake for example.

Whichever you choose, you're in the right place for advice and to get answers to your questions (some of which may actually be correct!)

Good luck and keep us posted!

he's already got two corns

[Strutter769]

Great! Then my advice worked!!

Jk

I apologize, I obviously didn't read very thoroughly.

[iBaman]

Lmao, it's ok. So they MIGHT be ready for a BRB, since they've had corns for about 2 years? or should they still build up to them?

[MrBD1980]

I would advise that if your looking to get a brb then a slightly older may be less nippy although if you buy through a breeder then you will be able to see how the individual snake behaves.

My 2cents would be that as there is slightly more care needed re humidity and heat for a brb over a corn that you would be wise to see if you can set a viv up ready and make sure you understand how to maintain the right conditions for a month *before* you make a purchase.

Not trying to dissuade you at all as I think with good commitment and a good attitude then you will enjoy having a brb! One possible consideration may be that for an 8 yr old a BRB may be slightly too secretive for them to maintain an interest, they really don't get seen out and about often. Just something to consider!

Brian

[daddy and son]

Yeah, we've had the corns for a year so Daniel is familiar with handling them and such. He generally takes them out for about 15 minutes at a time once or twice a day, the rest of the time they like to stay hid in their hides or burrow into their substrate.
As for the humidity, I've pretty well got that one whipped. I used an idea we use at work for oxygen humidification. I took the air pump from when that was a fish tank, ran the tubing into the bottom of a 5 gallon jug of distilled water. I ran another tube from the lid of the jug to the tank (carries the humidified air). The top is plexiglass with a dozen 1/8in holes drilled at the opposite end. The humidified air enters through the far left end of the tank and the holes at the far right allow ventilation and air flow without loosing too much humidity. After three days of testing, I've maintained a constant 80% humidity at 85-90 degrees. I think I have the environment pretty well set up. If I start seeing the humidity getting too high or something, I could always put the pump on a timer.
As for Daniel, he's really good with handling the corns, very gentle. Basically just lets them move around on him, crawl up his arm and such. He only gets them under supervision of my wife or myself. He's a really sharp kid and loves science.

[snake man12]

If you do get a brb supervise all handling!

[Tekpc007]

My juvi BRB is in a 110 quart tub with holes in the top only , no screen top with lots of flukers leaf/vines and a LED light on 12 hour timer , he will stay in the tub till he hits 42 inches then he will go to a nice 4x2x2 setup. He does like to climb around at night some times but i rarley seem him do this. I keep him at 73 cool / 82 warm with 77 ambeint. Humidity is at 90% all the time , only have to spray every 48 hours or so with using a tub. I use Cypress mulch only and 2 normal dry hides and 2 moss filled hides i keep moist. Most of the time he spends buried in the moss . He does come out about every 3 days at night to drink and cruise the tub , I feed him on 7 day cycle but he will not yet take FT so he gets fresh killed mice or rat (still trying to get him on rats but its 1 outta 5 or so now though he has taking a FT if i used a blow dryer on it but not often, they can be fussy feeders. Baby/Juvi brbs like it cooler with higher humidity than most care sheets list, mine rarely goes to the warm side and I never let it get below 80% humididty and he seems to prefer the cool side. they do rarley show themselves , i do welfare checks every 2 or 3 days . Water is a every day change as it can get funky fast in that enviroment. I do full change of moss and cypress monthly with total tub disinfection at the same time. I do take him out about once a week for 30 minutes for exercise and observation of health, cant have them out too long as he can overheat being handled or get too dry . He is super healthy and doing great so I must be doing it right ;) . they can be nippy , mine was for a good while until he got used to me and my smell and now he never bites unless i grab him too fast.
pre shed
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/8207/sam0291y.jpg
after shed , he is about 9 months old and 95 grams about 28 inches.
http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/1509/sam0126w.jpg
his tub , you can see the dry hide (black) and the moss hide (tupperware) and i have added more leafy vines now also so its even more dense. I use a flukers 11x11 UTH rated for plastic tubs under the moss hide with a hydrofarm thermostat .
http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/303/sam0155s.jpg[/QUOTE]

[MoreliAddict]

I wouldn't recommend brbs for an 8yr old as you only have experience with corns. They have high humidity requirements and can be nippy as yearlings but they do calm down. I would suggest you look into ball pythons.
Ball pythons have high humidity requirements too.

Seriously, go with whatever you two like...

[Wildside]

I think you two would do just fine with a rainbow boa. Just know that that snake may very well turn you into an addict. Soon you'll have 5 brb's, 12 Corns, 4 BP's and be looking to start into RTB's. You'll be building rack systems, purchasing miles of heat tape, buying stock in sterilite and stuffing snakes in each other's stockings at Christmas. Eventually you may even start to contemplate getting a lizard or 7. Don't say I didn't warn ya ;)

[snake man12]

Ball pythons have high humidity requirements too.

Seriously, go with whatever you two like...

A ball python doesn't need a constant humidity of 90%:)

[rmfsnakes32]

Wildside boy did you say that right I started with one now I have 8 and am planning on getting 2 more next month lol time to start building racks running out of places to put tanks lol

[Tekpc007]

keep in mind you will rarley see the BRB , they are nocturnal . Handling them every day just to handle it isnt a good idea for BRB's . If you want some thing that can be handled often by a young son , I would go for a corn snake or a hog island boa .

[Wildside]

keep in mind you will rarley see the BRB , they are nocturnal . Handling them every day just to handle it isnt a good idea for BRB's . If you want some thing that can be handled often by a young son , I would go for a corn snake or a hog island boa .

They have two corns and I would absolutely not recommend a hog for a young kid.

Daddy and Son what is it that appeals to you about the Rainbows?

[snake man12]

They have two corns and I would absolutely not recommend a hog for a young kid.

Daddy and Son what is it that appeals to you about the Rainbows?

I think a hog would be better than a brb.:)

[Wildside]

I think a hog would be better than a brb.:)

I think neither are the appropriate boa to begin with but these guys seem to have their heart set on the brb's.

[snake man12]

I also would not suggest either one which is why I think they should get a bp.

[Wildside]

I also would not suggest either one which is why I think they should get a bp.

But that's not a boa

[snake man12]

ehh still a boidae

[MoreliAddict]

A ball python doesn't need a constant humidity of 90%:)
You don't need to spray the enclosure or pay attention to humidity for a corn snake. A ball python or brb are both different stories.

Also, BRBs don't need a constant humidity of 90.

"A relative humidity of 75-80% is ideal."...

[Snakesitter]

(edited away)

[Snakesitter]

Welcome to our little corner of the forum, D&S!

Let me start by saying that you sound capable of adding a Brazilian to your collection. Your prior experience with snakes and awareness of their needs (such as humidity management) are both strong signs. Plus, I’ve never been a fan of urging people to get something they don’t want, because when they eventually do get their object of their dreams, that prior animal is often an unwanted burden…and feeds right into the unfortunately common idea that snakes are disposable pets. BTW, I got Brazilians as my second snake ever, and have never looked back.

I also have a few answers and suggestions.

Would we perhaps be better getting a yearling? Do older ones snap until they get used to the individual or once they get used to people pretty much stop altogether?
Brazilians mellow out with age and handling time. My new babies bite frequently, my juveniles rarely, and my adults almost never. A yearling will certainly be less bitey than a baby…but you do give up the extra “bonding/familiarity” a young acquisition provides.

After three days of testing, I've maintained a constant 80% humidity at 85-90 degrees.
While your humidity is pretty close to the mark, your temps are too high. Aim for a maximum level of 82F…these snakes can have real problems if temps go about 85F with no escape. I personally advocate a gradient of 72F low to 82F high.

You will see your rainbow out and about mostly during the evening to morning period, as these snakes are nocturnal. That said, they are aware of their surroundings even in the day, and many of mine will rest with a head sticking out their hide door so they can watch me.

BTW, I’ve seen the rumor a few times now that frequent handling can cause a rainbow to “dry out”…and do not feel that is accurate. So long as they have access to water before and after a session, they will be fine.

I hope this helps! If you have any other questions feel free to ask -- I keep over 20 of these guys!

[Wildside]

ehh still a boidae

I'm starting to think you want a piece of me...

[snake man12]

I just cracked up!!=]

[Wildside]

I just cracked up!!=]

Tread lightly Darlin'!

Korbin has fallen from the face of the Earth and Jay has gotten rather quiet :D

[bcoop1234]

I think you two would do just fine with a rainbow boa. Just know that that snake may very well turn you into an addict. Soon you'll have 5 brb's, 12 Corns, 4 BP's and be looking to start into RTB's. You'll be building rack systems, purchasing miles of heat tape, buying stock in sterilite and stuffing snakes in each other's stockings at Christmas. Eventually you may even start to contemplate getting a lizard or 7. Don't say I didn't warn ya ;)

You hit the nail on the head with that comment Wild... I started with one corn and now I have 8 snakes. I would have more but then they would start costing more to feed them than feed me... I was considering kicking my buddy out of my house and turning his room into a snake room. I want one of every kind!!!

[daddy and son]

They have two corns and I would absolutely not recommend a hog for a young kid.

Daddy and Son what is it that appeals to you about the Rainbows?

The coloration mostly, the bright reddish-orange with the iridescent sheen.
His first choice was an anaconda.. NOT! Then he wanted a reticulated python... that's a negative ghost rider! Next up, a red-tail boa. Okay, getting closer but a 10 foot snake still a little big. We both liked the coloration of the rainbow and since they only get about 6 ft long, that's something we can handle.

[daddy and son]

Welcome to our little corner of the forum, D&S!

Let me start by saying that you sound capable of adding a Brazilian to your collection. Your prior experience with snakes and awareness of their needs (such as humidity management) are both strong signs. Plus, I’ve never been a fan of urging people to get something they don’t want, because when they eventually do get their object of their dreams, that prior animal is often an unwanted burden…and feeds right into the unfortunately common idea that snakes are disposable pets. BTW, I got Brazilians as my second snake ever, and have never looked back.

I also have a few answers and suggestions.


Brazilians mellow out with age and handling time. My new babies bite frequently, my juveniles rarely, and my adults almost never. A yearling will certainly be less bitey than a baby…but you do give up the extra “bonding/familiarity” a young acquisition provides.


While your humidity is pretty close to the mark, your temps are too high. Aim for a maximum level of 82F…these snakes can have real problems if temps go about 85F with no escape. I personally advocate a gradient of 72F low to 82F high.

You will see your rainbow out and about mostly during the evening to morning period, as these snakes are nocturnal. That said, they are aware of their surroundings even in the day, and many of mine will rest with a head sticking out their hide door so they can watch me.

BTW, I’ve seen the rumor a few times now that frequent handling can cause a rainbow to “dry out”…and do not feel that is accurate. So long as they have access to water before and after a session, they will be fine.

I hope this helps! If you have any other questions feel free to ask -- I keep over 20 of these guys!

I'll likely use a thermostat to control the temperature. The air pumping through the water keeps the cool end cooler. The warm end has a piece of sandstone near the heater to bask.

[Kettennatter]

Based on what is posted here I don't have much of a doubt that they'll be able to handle a Brazilian. Just keep in mind that my kids wanted all kinds of snakes, yet they interact most with a simple garter snake, just because the snake is very active during daylight hours.

[snake man12]

The coloration mostly, the bright reddish-orange with the iridescent sheen.
His first choice was an anaconda.. NOT! Then he wanted a reticulated python... that's a negative ghost rider! Next up, a red-tail boa. Okay, getting closer but a 10 foot snake still a little big. We both liked the coloration of the rainbow and since they only get about 6 ft long, that's something we can handle.

A bci will only get 5 to 7 feet maximum.

[Kettennatter]

A bci will only get 5 to 7 feet maximum.

That's true, but they are rather strong thick-bodied snakes. Maybe a bit much for a 8yo, even though many BCIs are docile to a fault.

Otherwise I would also recommend a BCI because of their temperament and their robustness.

[snake man12]

That's true, but they are rather strong thick-bodied snakes. Maybe a bit much for a 8yo, even though many BCIs are docile to a fault.

Otherwise I would also recommend a BCI because of their temperament and their robustness.

I agree with you. I was just stating something.:)

[daddy and son]

What is a BCI?

[Aaron_S]

Boa Constrictor Imperator. It's the scientific name for Colombian boa.

[daddy and son]

gotcha.. they're still in the running, especially if they only get about 7 feet. We can handle that. may come down to cost. What are the humidity requirements for a BCI compared to the BRB?

[Aaron_S]

Low.

The big difference isn't just the length of a snake. It's the overall size. BRB's tend to be a more slender snake whereas the BCI are more heavy bodied. They both could be 6 feet but the BCI will definitely outweigh the BRB.

Honestly, if the BRB is what the heart is set on then I'm sure you'll do your best to keep it!

[Wildside]

Honestly, if the BRB is what the heart is set on then I'm sure you'll do your best to keep it!

Agreed but there's a few things I want to throw out there about BCI...

First, when it comes down to initial cost the BCI is gonna be cheaper. (Depending on the morph of course)

By the time that BCI becomes too much for this 8 y.o. he'll be 12, so it'll probably never truly become too much for him.

Third, males are the BCI that stays within the 5-7 ft. range, it's not uncommon for females to exceed this, but they're also likely to stay within this range.

I'd like to close with this thought that goes back to my first post itt. You've already caught boa fever if you're considering a rainbow. Buying a boa is gonna cause this affliction to set in deep. You are more than likely going to end up owning both of these species plus a few more. I'd start building a rack system if I were you ;)

[Tekpc007]

this is why i said a male Hog island boa , known to be docile , will stay small and are active in the day , not fussy eaters and very hardy . Can deal with handling by a younger son better than a BRB ...

[Wildside]

this is why i said a male Hog island boa , known to be docile , will stay small and are active in the day , not fussy eaters and very hardy . Can deal with handling by a younger son better than a BRB ...

The two hogs I've dealt with were downright hateful. That doesn't mean they're all like this but I dealt with two that were. At that time I would've much rather had a tiny brb trying to tag my pinky than the loudly hissing hog island that was constantly trying to get a mouthful of wildside. I'm just sayin'.

[Tekpc007]

I agree , you have to handle the boa before you buy it. i did get mine from a gal online who breeds them and held them often as babies so my male is sweet , never hisses or strikes even my 70 yr old mom will hold him. Depends what you get , thats why now i always handle them for a good 30 minutes or so and visit them 2 or 3 times before i buy a snake. My brb was a little cobra for a good while , bit often but now he is mellow.

[daddy and son]

Doing some thinking now... considering maybe doing a BCI this year, start building some boa experience, then getting the BRB next year. Daniel will be a little older then too. A side question on the brbs. Since everyone agrees they nip and do have teeth, albeit small teeth, is it a good idea to wear some canvas gloves when handling them. I know jerking back when they bite can harm the snake, but reflexes don't always allow time to think through everything (especially when a kid is involved). would canvas or leather be better? (assuming gloves are a good idea)
Sorry for the dumb questions. Just trying to make sure we research this and get it right from the start rather than having to play catch-up down the road.

[snake man12]

Leather because the teeth could get caught on the threads and they could rip out.

[Tekpc007]

BRB bites do sting a bit , I never wore gloves though and even now that he is a juvi at 28 inches i can handles the bites with a good audible curse word haha. i have a jungle carpet python that is about the same size and i do wear thin leather gloves for him and he bites over and over but he is still in handling training. the big issue is the shock of being bit , the sting and i can see a little person pulling the hand away or shaking off the snake which could be bad for the snake.

[Strutter769]

After reading all this, I say get a Rainbow! You're definitely in the right place to find the best of the best breeders with just incredible animals to choose from.

Good luck!

[Wildside]

Doing some thinking now... considering maybe doing a BCI this year, start building some boa experience, then getting the BRB next year. Daniel will be a little older then too. A side question on the brbs. Since everyone agrees they nip and do have teeth, albeit small teeth, is it a good idea to wear some canvas gloves when handling them. I know jerking back when they bite can harm the snake, but reflexes don't always allow time to think through everything (especially when a kid is involved). would canvas or leather be better? (assuming gloves are a good idea)
Sorry for the dumb questions. Just trying to make sure we research this and get it right from the start rather than having to play catch-up down the road.

You're questions are far from dumb. Unfortunately, gloves do not stop reflexes. It takes mass amounts of experience to stop reflexes. All that you hear about jerking back etc. is a myth IMHO. Jerking away will more likely cause the victim more harm than the snake. Also, every time I've ever been tagged, the bite happened before I realized it was going too. I didn't even have enough time to jerk away before the snake released. I think that's why it's referred to as "tagging". Also you will be seriously surprised at the amount of pain that doesn't exist from being tagged. Bleeding is the worst part! Also, If you're watching closely you will be faster than the snake. Keep in mind I am talking about being "tagged" as in taming a nippy baby, or startling a larger snake, not actually being mistaken for food (that's a whole different ball game). I'm also not referring to all snakes, some of them hit pretty hard, but in general what I just described is pretty much how it is.

There are a lot of good "How to Handle" vids on youtube. Watching these will help build your confidence when it comes to taming, handling, and your reaction.

[Aaron_S]

Just get an older snake to avoid the whole biting thing. No need to rush things. Just wait to find the perfect animal for you guys!

I still say BRB by the way.

[marvelfreak]

I have handle a couple dozen or more baby Rainbow. I have never once seen or heard of one that was nippy.

[snake man12]

I got bit by one at an expo 4 times. Also all the other clutch mates were nippy as well.

[Toronto1977]

My neonate Brb is as sweet as can be. Never struck or showed any signs of defensiveness. Depends on the individual snake. I'll say Brb even though I also have a Bci (Hog Island).

[Rainbowsrus]

Well, as a breeder, I will chime in here as well.

Yes, MOST baby BRB's are very nippy out of the egg sack but most people never see this as they tame down a lot within the first month or two.

IMO BRB's have a undeserved reputation as being harder to care for. Provide the proper caging and standard snake care of cleaning and feeding and they will thrive. Yes the cage will be more humid than other species and will require more frequent cleaning due to the possibility of mold. Other species should actually be cleaned just as often btw, it's just that you can get away with leaving dried waste products in an enclosure longer than damp ones.

You are absolutely doing the right thing in researching and asking your questions on a forum. You have already received many responses and as always with an open forum, you have to decide what advice works for you and what does not. ie take them all with a grain of salt (including mine ;-) )

As Cliff already stated your temps are too high, need to be down around 80 for warm end and up to 10 degrees cooler for cool end.

Interesting concept for humidity but maybe too much? My rainbow room houses between 200 and 500 animals depending on time of year and not one single cage has misting, fogging or any other mechanical method of providing humidity. Just simple concept of large surface area water dishes combined with limited ventilation. Warm air in an enclosed space with water will automatically become humid.

Last point I will recommend for any animal is to use care sheets provided by actual breeders with actual experience with that specific species. There are a lot of resellers out there with care sheets tweaked from one species to the next and not altogether accurate.

[Shmoges]

Many ppl have told me that BRB's are out of the blue face biters. They will be fine for years and then they will launch at your face. I always try to be aware of that possibility with mine and keep faces apart but I just wonder if its the law of averages weighing out over years for ppl to come to that kind of consensus. Ours is a sweat heart if he isn't hungry or yoru trying to get him out of a place he is wedged in and doesn't want out, those are the two times I have been bit (my fault). On that note besides a emerald tree boa i think a BRB is the next on the list for snakes I don't want to be bit in the face by (venomous excluded). They have some very very nasty curved teeth, way worse than any other snake in my collection.

[snake man12]

Many ppl have told me that BRB's are out of the blue face biters. They will be fine for years and then they will launch at your face. I always try to be aware of that possibility with mine and keep faces apart but I just wonder if its the law of averages weighing out over years for ppl to come to that kind of consensus. Ours is a sweat heart if he isn't hungry or yoru trying to get him out of a place he is wedged in and doesn't want out, those are the two times I have been bit (my fault). On that note besides a emerald tree boa i think a BRB is the next on the list for snakes I don't want to be bit in the face by (venomous excluded). They have some very very nasty curved teeth, way worse than any other snake in my collection.

Worse than you long tails?

[millertime89]

If your son wants a reticulated python ask him. If he just wants it because they get big (which it sounds like is the case because he also mentioned getting an anaconda), ok, move on. But if he likes the colors and patterns there are alternatives that stay slender and under 8 ft. They're a little more prone to being cage defensive as they LOVE their food.

That said, I think you guys are more than capable of getting and caring for a BRB. I love my 2 and have only ever been struck at once by one of them when I stressed him out when I thought he escaped and moved his hide around scaring the poor guy. Just make sure that you're happy with whatever you decide to end up getting. Good luck.

[Snakesitter]

I agree with the comments that Brazilians suffer from bad PR. They are not nearly as treacherous or difficult to keep as some rumors make out. Mine all want to touch noses with me, and last night almost 18 of them did it without a single bite or even threat...and these were the younger, and therefore potentially jumpier, ones!

I feel gloves are unnecessary, and only slow down the process of your new snake getting to know you.

As for your youngster wanting an anaconda or retic...wow! Good thing he didn't see the Titanoboa pictures. ;-)

Whichever species you choose, good luck!

[daddy and son]

I think we're gonna stick withthe original plan of a brb. i find them fascinating myself. I want to have the terrarium up and running for a couple of weeks, get my temps and humidity levels just right, monitor and tweak it some to make sure I have a good, healthy environment. NOT gonna be one of those that thinks getting a snake is cool, tosses him in the tank, then 2 weeks later wondering why he's dead. Before Daniel got his corns, I read, and made him read the care sheets so he had an idea what he was getting in to. He's done great with those, so going to let him move forward.

[Lankyrob]

Good idea, its always best to go with one you really want so that a couple of months down the road you still love it :) - dont forget pics!!!

[Snakesitter]

I agree with Lankyrob 100%. Having raised a ton of these snakes myself, please let me know if you need any tips!!!

[daddy and son]

probably going to go ahead and do the BRB. i think we can handle it. And sitter (and everyone else) I'm sure we'll have many more questions down the line. I appreciate all the input

[daddy and son]

Here's a pic of Daniel. Below that, one of our corns, Muffy.
http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg20/hillcat2008/411325_3511299631235_1534205092_3104171_1339425768 _o1.jpg
http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg20/hillcat2008/muffy.jpg

[snake man12]

You have a very handsome son and corn.

I can't wait to see pics of the brb when ya get one.

[daddy and son]

thank you! Daniel is a great kid. Muffy is a pretty good snake too.

[Snakesitter]

Great picts both. I see your corn is proficient with Facebook. ;-)

[daddy and son]

Well, we finally came to a decision. We're going to get a ball python this year and a BRB next. I want him to be a little older and have a little more snake experience before we make that jump.

[Wildside]

Well, we finally came to a decision. We're going to get a ball python this year and a BRB next. I want him to be a little older and have a little more snake experience before we make that jump.


Very good decision!

[rmfsnakes32]

Thats a good choice there is plenty of really pretty ball python morphs out the. Good luck I will be watching the python thread for pics of your soon to be thread!

[SnakeyJay]

Stunning snakes to own and with a little patience and understanding of humidity they're easy to care for.. However as has been said, they're VERY shy species and don't do too well with excessive handling in my opinion. I never see mine out in the day time and at night she has a strong feeding response..

I believe your fully capable of caring for a Brb but it may not be the best choice for what you want from a snake ( activity and your son being able to handle it regularly.) obviously there's the risk of bites but that comes with any snake and any size. :D

[Wildside]

Stunning snakes to own and with a little patience and understanding of humidity they're easy to care for.. However as has been said, they're VERY shy species and don't do too well with excessive handling in my opinion. I never see mine out in the day time and at night she has a strong feeding response..

I believe your fully capable of caring for a Brb but it may not be the best choice for what you want from a snake ( activity and your son being able to handle it regularly.) obviously there's the risk of bites but that comes with any snake and any size. :D

Protip: You should read at least the last few posts of a thread before responding Dear ;)

[Snakesitter]

D&S, congrats on reaching a solid decision. I wish you the best of luck with your new pet!

[millertime89]

Boo... don't get a pet rock.

[SnakeyJay]

Protip: You should read at least the last few posts of a thread before responding Dear ;)

Oh I read them all mate, but I don't like royals or keep them so I gave my opinion on the brb instead.

[Snakesitter]

Royals are not my favorite either, but I think the logic and research were both very sound here, and completely support their decision. I wish more people were that thorough!!!

[jaleely]

woohoo for ball pythons!! I have some very sweet personalities in my collection, and i recommend them for any kid...and your son is a doll!!

[daddy and son]

Royals are not my favorite either, but I think the logic and research were both very sound here, and completely support their decision. I wish more people were that thorough!!!

Thanks. The one thing I'm really trying to teach him is responsibility. Better to take it in small amounts than too much at once. If I overload him, the snake is the one that pays the price. Not fair to the snake. Let him work up to it and he'll do well.

[daddy and son]

woohoo for ball pythons!! I have some very sweet personalities in my collection, and i recommend them for any kid...and your son is a doll!!

Thanks! I kind of think so too. As does Emma, his little girlfriend.

[millertime89]

Thanks. The one thing I'm really trying to teach him is responsibility. Better to take it in small amounts than too much at once. If I overload him, the snake is the one that pays the price. Not fair to the snake. Let him work up to it and he'll do well.

Great attitude.

[Snakesitter]

Thanks. The one thing I'm really trying to teach him is responsibility. Better to take it in small amounts than too much at once. If I overload him, the snake is the one that pays the price. Not fair to the snake. Let him work up to it and he'll do well.
Kudos to you for doing it right...with both snake and son!