Reproduction in captive black pine snakes Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi
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Published source details
Reichling S. (1982) Reproduction in captive black pine snakes Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi. Herpetological Review, 13, 41-42.
Published source details Reichling S. (1982) Reproduction in captive black pine snakes Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi. Herpetological Review, 13, 41-42.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Breed reptiles in captivity: Snakes – Colubrids Action Link |
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Breed reptiles in captivity: Snakes – Colubrids
A study in 1979–1981 at Memphis Zoo and Aquarium, USA (Reichling 1982) reported that black pine snakes Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi bred successfully in captivity. In 1981, a single female produced seven eggs, and all seven hatched successfully. In 1979–1980, two female snakes and one male were obtained from Alabama and housed individually in 113 litre aquaria, with temperatures ranging from 25–32°C in summer and 9–18°C in winter. In March 1980 and April 1981, the first female was paired with the male, but no mating activity was observed. In April 1981, the second female was paired with the male and they mated successfully. Eggs were transferred to an 11 litre, sealed plastic box with small holes drilled in the sides and incubated in vermiculite (1:1 ratio by volume with water). Incubation temperatures were maintained at 24–31°C but dropped as low as 6°C at night.
(Summarised by: William Morgan)
