292 REPTILES AND BATRACHIANS 



Snakes 



In making a cage for snakes, much depends on the size 

 and habits of the particular species expected to occupy it. 

 No fixed dimensions need be set. Snakes are not par- 

 ticularly active creatures, and the cage need be only large 

 enough to give its occupants room to move about freely. 

 For the smaller species large glass aquaria, fitted with wire 

 tops, make excellent homes, and have the added advantage 

 of plenty of light. If the cage is to be of wood, the front 

 should be of glass rather than of wire, as snakes are likely 

 to rub against the latter and injure their mouths. It is 

 always wise to make the door of such a box in the top, which 

 makes it possible to care for the captives with a minimum 

 of disturbance. This door, or the entire top, may be of 

 wire netting, to allow ventilation. 



The furnishing of the cage may be varied according to 

 the needs of the inmates. In some cases it is better left 

 entirely plain. In others the bottom may be covered with 

 sand, loam, dry leaves, moss or rounded pebbles. Many 

 snakes will take advantage of a shelf placed midway between 

 floor and top, and others will drape themselves among 

 branches set upright in the cage. 



Water should be provided for all species, and water 

 snakes should have a good-sized bath, in which they will 

 often be found immersed. 



Cages must be cleaned frequently and all excreta re- 

 moved with great care. Snakes are fond of sunshine, and 

 the cage should be placed so as to admit it, but care must 

 be taken to avoid over-heating. It is important that the 

 cage be absolutely dry, for snakes of most species will not 

 thrive in damp quarters, or even in a moist atmosphere. 



The matter of feeding snakes is the most vexing prob- 

 lem. Few specimens will take dead food, so a stock of 



