Maintenance of Rattlesnakes in Captivity (Classic Reprint) - Softcover

James Bernard Murphy

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0282309616 ISBN 13: 9780282309619

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

Excerpt from Maintenance of Rattlesnakes in Captivity

Beginning in November 1966, a multifaceted approach for the investigation of rattlesnakes (genera Crotalus and Sistrurus) and other pit vipers was initiated at the Dallas Zoo by using a combina tion of field and captive observations. Our observations concerning the ecology and natural history of wild rattlesnakes were utilized as a basis in order to successfully maintain captive Specimens. Further, many of the behavioral components found in rattlesnakes were not readily observable in the field but could be seen in captiv ity. As our studies continued, it became apparent that the continua tion of a captive colony of rattlesnakes, roughly numbering 50 taxa and 125 individuals, required Specialized techniques. To that end, we searched the literature dealing with reptilian husbandry, espe cially concerning rattlesnakes. In addition, we consulted with col leagues who had successfully maintained these Ophidians. Since reproductive and captive propagation was a consideration, we tried to develop a format with that objective in mind.

The results of our studies are contained in this account and a companion volume which deals with the ecology and natural history of 45 taxa of Mexican rattlesnakes. This present account is divided into two parts; the first covers successful husbandry techniques, and the second surveys organisms causing pathogenicity, recommenda tions for treatment and appropriate medical procedures. It is obvious that many of these techniques can be applied on a larger scale to the captive maintenance of a considerable number of reptile species besides rattlesnakes.

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Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0282309616
• ISBN 13: 9780282309619
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 54