Kevin McCurley
Large Pythons
February 15, 2008
PHFaust: On behalf of Jeff Barringer and all of us at kingsnake.com,
I'm very pleased to welcome Kevin McCurley to our Tenth Annual Chat
Week. NERD's Kevin McCurley first focused his breeding efforts on Pituophis
and other large colubrids, and over the course of time the collection
grew along with an interest in pythons, particularly retics and ball
pythons. During the past ten years, that focus has brought myriad color
morphs and combinations to the NERD collection, many of which were first
bred at his facility. The EvilMorphGod joins us this evening to talk
Big Business. This time Kevin will be joining us to talk about the large
constrictors. Golden Child fans come forth.
PHFaust: Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls I present The Evil Morph
God, Kevin McCurley!
EvilMorphgod: Jeff, hunt and peck! You can do it! It can not be that
hard...I heard you have some skills!
jeffb: Is there a "good Morph god" to counterbalance the
evil one
EvilMorphgod: Brian at BHB...... He floats around on a cloud of lacey
fluff...
jeffb: thx!
EvilMorphgod: golden rays shine down upon him and there are harps a
playing and angles a fluttering.. Yeah, makes me sick too!
EnimaPan_nr: angles?
EvilMorphgod: angels a fluttering
EnimaPan_nr: do you think b12 is better for snakes than a standard
gut loaded with spinach diet?
EvilMorphgod: I think b12 is very important...you can even try Bee
pollen which has all sorts of good things in it... I think something
better than spinach... add more things...that is not enough. I use mazuri
tortoise diet for many of my crickets! I do not know if b12 is better
for snakes than lizards...it does help the immune system for sure!!!!
Cleobear_nr: Of the large pythons, which are your favorite to
work with? I personally prefer retics
EvilMorphgod: Retic for sure, they are smart and quite interesting.
They make you think and can be a challenge to breed. A big giant, or
a potential giant has my attention for sure!
EvilMorphgod: less prone to the dreaded "snots"... But I
love burms and almost any big snake...unless it is trying to eat me...
then I just like it!
buton_nr: Kevin will you be at the Hamburg show?
EvilMorphgod: I used to do it, I have just become soooo overwhelmed
by the amount of things I have to do...I just decided to bow out...
it could also be because I saw a bearded girl there too!!! :)
EvilMorphgod: I do like that show, hots, I LOVE HOTS!!!!
AnimalLoverGirl: Umm I was wondering
EvilMorphgod: Or Jeff Ronnie laughing!!!
EvilMorphgod: Gee Haw, Gee Haaa.....
boaphile: ? RONNE not Ronnie ? I do have a question?
JerMe: Have you ever had your hand, or arm down a large snakes throat?
If so, why?
EvilMorphgod: No, if you are asking have I ever been attacked by one?
As in one tried to swallow my arm? No, but I have been grabbed....
JerMe: Or for medical purposes?
EvilMorphgod: When that happens I generally bite the snake back, and
I MEAN IT!! No, not for medical. I have had the other end of the snake
though...
EvilMorphgod: Oviducts out, egg bound snakes...all that sort of mumbo
jumbo...sad to say!
boaphile: Kevi Wevi, who is the nicest guy you know in the Reptile
business? I have a follow up too.
EvilMorphgod: Yeah, baldy! You are, that is GROSS!!!
boaphile: Did you ever get that hair cut I so highly recommended? Have
you ever tried to breed a Ball and a Burm or a Retic Kevi Wevi?
EvilMorphgod: In reality....I have to think about that... Adam @ 8
Ball is quite a nice guy. Sorry, I forgot I was SATAN
PHFaust: LOL
EvilMorphgod: There are many nice people...and then there are those
that are NOT!
boaphile: Why not? I think it could be done...
EvilMorphgod: But, Jeff is one of them! No, I have never done either
of those crosses....
boaphile: You know I love you man! Ball X Burm... Have a great chat!!!
EvilMorphgod: I have slowed down on my creations due to being overwhelmed...I
want to do it...just need to focus...instead I sweep my hallways and
scrub the toilets of my big building..and shiver when I get the mail!!
I will try to do them though..
boaphile: But don't forget, I need that new CD.
EvilMorphgod: I once did a borneo bateater to an African rock
python
boaphile: Sorry to take so long
EvilMorphgod: They were weird but not healthy!!!
CrocodylusAcutus: Do you prefer large snakes to small ones? If so,
why? If not, why?
EvilMorphgod: Good question. I think overall I like the big ones.....
I just sit there and admire them when they are big and they are letting
you interact with them and they are investigating you and their surroundings..
There is a "magic" there that I LOVE...
CrocodylusAcutus: cool
EvilMorphgod: Sitting there with a 20' friendly retic and watching
it roam around on your lawn is amazing..
CrocodylusAcutus: I would imagine
EvilMorphgod: the snake deserves so much credit to know you and make
sense that you are not its enemy
PHGinger: Or watch the neighbor's reaction?
EvilMorphgod: Same thing applies to a big friendly water monitor
lizard...MAGIC!!!
CrocodylusAcutus: I hear ya on that one
EvilMorphgod: I do of course like any snake....and breed lots of small
ones too!
EnimaPan_nr: Say this law passes, will you switch to Scrub Pythons
or Green Trees?
EvilMorphgod: I could not imagine not being allowed to keep them...they
bring people's attention and thoughts about exotics to life!
PHFaust: I'm sure the legislation is a major concern for all
keepers. We do have a panel chat scheduled on Friday February 28 at
10 pm ET to discuss the proposed ban. For those who are confused as
to what we are deferring to please check out the blog at http://www.pethobbyist.com/sitenews/index.php?/archives/202-Feds-Move-To-Ban-Pythons-Boas.html
EvilMorphgod: If that LAW PASSES...I think I will be done....
EnimaPan_nr: that stinks
EvilMorphgod: It would kill me and would REALLY hurt the ENTIRE THING!!!!!!
EnimaPan_nr: so...no
EvilMorphgod: If we lose such a right then there is more of our rights
to be lost in the future..
EnimaPan_nr: agreed
EvilMorphgod: They will then tell people they can not keep large breeds
of dogs? Macaws? It makes me mental!!
PHFaust: Kevin hun, they already have bans on dogs, by breed, but also
by weight.
EvilMorphgod: I value large constrictors as educational tools
and they are a major part of my live animal shows that we do here!!!
EnimaPan_nr: so switching would not be a consideration...chalk it up
as a loss
EvilMorphgod: I mean Federally and on a national level!! Allowing
the Govt to nail you if you break their law or cross a state border
with the Lacey act violation. That's a big deal!!!
EvilMorphgod: No, switching would not work. My heart would die and
I would just be crushed!!!
EnimaPan_nr: sure, look forward to the 29th, had to ask though
EvilMorphgod: What next....what else will they do. Let's face
it, this world is not getting easier or better!!!
adamjeffery: With the hybrids you have made what stance do you have
against those that are anti hybrid?
EvilMorphgod: Anti hybrids.... I think that anything that I do to enjoy
my critters and make others enjoy theirs is good. I am not making them
to release...they are a captive domesticated type thing. Living enjoyment
and wondering what they will be. I believe in evolution....this stuff
happened or happens in the wild!!!!!!!
adamjeffery: I have many hybrids and am always coming into conflicts
with others and they feel it will destroy the hobby How do feel on this?
EvilMorphgod: I just may put a few weird combos to the test! There
are purist...but they seem overboard at times... Just the same with
venomous and voids... both sides...I keep both.
adamjeffery: At least one big breeder is truthful on the subject. Thank
you.
EvilMorphgod: The hybrid opposition will always be there and I will
always be "satan"
adamjeffery: well I am a minion then
One_nr: What is the best way to keep humidity levels above 70% in the
cage. I have a 29 gal tank with one 100 watt halogen during the day,
and a small UTH on one side and a 75 watt night glow on the other side
during the night. Day temps reach 88F and night temps reach 80F. I use
Repti Bark as substrate and mist twice a day. Yet, my levels only peak
40%. I also use an 8 inch ceramic water bowl under the day bulb to aid
in evaporation. I have a slider hood. Any tips?
EvilMorphgod: Ok, are we talking a snake? The problem is that bulb...
One_nr: yes...a tree boa, tree python..sorry
EvilMorphgod: Snakes do best with heating pads and reducing
the ventilation to hold some of the heat in...Ok, tree boa....a large
heating pad on the bottom and a red light...cover part of the cage.
Repti bark is orchid bark and not all that good at holding water...
Coco peat with a deep layer of long fiber sphagnum looks good and holds
in tons of humidity! Tree boas like hide boxes too! You can put moistened
sphagnum in that too!! Reduce the bulb wattage and change to a red light..put
a large water dish over the heating pad!
One_nr: If I put sphagnum into a hiding place do you think the
humidity in the rest of cage matters? Especially when the snake spends
most of the time inside the hiding?
EvilMorphgod: Yes, in the rest of the cage but a deep layer of it in
the hide may really help. Pack it in there and keep it like a well wrung
out wash cloth...that should really help!!
One_nr: Thanks for taking the time to answer my question..though it
may be a simple one I appreciate it.
HerpsAlot: What is the best bedding to use for Burmese pythons?
EvilMorphgod: Burms... Newspaper is GREAT! Then cypress mulch...
Johnb73: What would you tell someone who was looking into getting a
large python, what are your recommendations?
EvilMorphgod: Make sure you know how large it may get....generally,
males will be easier to limit in size. what they will need to feed it...be
responsible. Acting stupid and keeping it for the wrong reasons stink...it
makes all of us look bad when something bad happens. I am all about
people getting to keep a big pet python
Johnb73: Of course, just in addition, what are some things to look
for when looking to adopt?
EvilMorphgod: It makes other people recognize how cool they
can be and a reason to protect things such as the rainforest. Adopting
is great since you can often take a suffering animal and turn it around
quick... I think you can tame nearly all abused snakes over time....some
snakes may appear nuts due to what they have had happen...Snake remember...example,
blood pythons REALLY remember being captured and abused by the skinners.
Fish tanks do not work all that well when the snake gets big! I will
continue to ramble on this point unless you stop me!
Johnb73: That was the biggest question I had, thank you. You
may stop haha
EvilMorphgod: you're welcome
monitorman_nr: The law that you were talking about...is that for large
monitors too?
EvilMorphgod: I hate people that are cruel to their food animals.....overboard
on such things...I am not aware about the monitors but it would mean
that it is coming down the pipeline! I love my big monitors...and alligators!!!!
monitorman_nr: But how would they know if you have such reptiles
EvilMorphgod: How would they know? If a person had them in their homes?
monitorman_nr: Yes if you keep them if they say you cant have them.
PHFaust: Are you referring to Kevin? or private keepers?
monitorman_nr: private
EvilMorphgod: Just a matter of time before the wrong person found out
and became a "rat"
monitorman_nr: I see, I don't want to give up my monitors.
EvilMorphgod: There are plenty of people that keep stuff that few people
know about.... I am one where everything I keep is pretty well known.
EvilMorphgod: WE ALL NEED to fight this and not think the other person
will do it...every voice has the SAME POWER!!!!! Mine and Howdy Doodies
are equal!!!!
monitorman_nr: I will fight
EvilMorphgod: Well, not really, he is actually made of wood and does
not pay taxes...and can not think...but I am not sure how well I can
think at times. Everyone must fight...we need everyone to pay attention
to this in the next few months!!!!!
monitorman_nr: Well it's our right to keep them.
EvilMorphgod: That chat better have a HUGE amount of people logged
on!!!!!!
PHGinger: All pet owners should be concerned - not just reptile
owners.
EvilMorphgod: It is our right to keep them!!!!!!!!!!! We just have
to remind the powers that be that we know what we are doing and they
need to leave us alone!!!!
PHFaust: Exactly, the laws have a way of taking the most terrifying
thing and making it a big issue.
EvilMorphgod: Yes, all pet owners...they will eventually look at bird
breeds, invasive type...macaws and parrots breed in FLA!!!!
PHFaust: The will start with a scary animal and move.
monitorman_nr: Well a lot time captive reptiles live better
then in the wild.
EvilMorphgod: I am the scary animal poster child!
PHFaust: lol
EvilMorphgod: I want to keep sharks...but I can not afford to!!!!
Snakesitter: First, would you have any advice for dealing with a large
snake when it’s feeling, umm, “opinionated”? I’ve
been temporarily snakesitting my friend’s African Rock Python since
the start of September, and – for a species so many people say
so many evil things about – he’s a real sweetheart. But there
was one single night when he did not feel like going back in his cage,
and despite trying it slowly and carefully over 30 minutes, it ended
badly for my left arm….
EvilMorphgod: OK, rocks are very strong and love to get hissy.
When it is scaring you and making you think he may bite...use a towel...put
it over its head....get him feeling less threatened... a BIG MAJOR rule
of thumb!!!! Our eyes wig out snakes!!!!! They may go over the edge
when they feel like we are staring at them...
Snakesitter: heh cool. Second, this is the first large snake I’ve
interacted with for an extended period. I’ve been amazed how smart
he (sometimes) seems, and how curious he is about the world at large.
Any opinion on which species seem to you to be the most intelligent?
EvilMorphgod: If you are holding a snake and you think it is
ready to freak out...your last thing you can do is to look away..this
will often ramp things down. Rocks are very nice once they are friendly
and AMAZINGLY strong!!!!!!! I think retics are tops for big constrictors.......
they are just all that in the brains department... Everyone knows that
their snakes recognize them?? Right? They do!! Well, big constrictors...Has
anyone ever seen or held a snake that was wonderful in their arms but
starts tweaking out when someone else plays with it or holds it???
PHFaust: yep...
EvilMorphgod: Burms do this bit sometimes and will start huffing apuffing...they
know their owners!!!!
PHFaust: Everyone can answer if you wish.
EvilMorphgod: I am rambling...
HerpsAlot: Yeah my female burm does that
jeff866: I have 2 Retics, and they seem much smarter than my other
constrictors.
PHFaust: Our large female burm hates me, but my small male hates my
husband... All the bloods hate my husband.
PHGinger: Kevin - ramble away - you have much to teach.
EvilMorphgod: If we take the time to recognize what our snakes are
doing we see that there is more to them than one might think..watch
your snakes...when they are meandering around investigating...they have
long tongue flicks...that says a lot about their mood!! If a snake is
worrying you, watch the tongue flicks...A short tongue flick, one that
hangs out, or no tongue flicks is telling you the snake has changed
what it is thinking! Bloods...do not like to be loomed over....I play
with many bloods and the best trick to playing with the crazy ones is
to pretend that they are not going to bite you...pick them up and kind
of look away...if you lock eyes with them then you are only making it
worse...
jeff866: What do the other types of tongue flicks mean?
EvilMorphgod: Lots of tricks when it comes to dealing with the nervous
nellies out there..
jeffb: sounds like my last date
EvilMorphgod: It's all about how you play with your critters.....
Snakesitter: Thank you, sir!
EvilMorphgod: Long tongue flicks are good!! EvilMorphgod: They mean
I am happy, checking things out... a set of short tongue flicks such
as a snake, tasting something means I have found something interesting...
jeff866: That means they are happy?
EvilMorphgod: Random short tongue flicks generally means that I am
nervous...
HerpsAlot: I notice that my burm has long tongue flicks when
he seems to be concentrating.
EvilMorphgod: A tongue that hangs out means I may freak out and bite...I
am scared!!!! Yes, long tongue flicks means business as usual...A snake
crawling around on the floor happily...watch his tongue...long meandering
tongue flicks...just checking things...curious!
HerpsAlot: That's what he does.
EvilMorphgod: A burm that is hissing, holding its ground will give
a much shorter random tongue flick...he is telling you that he is ready
for a potential fight if he gets pushed...Remember one thing. you must
teach your snake that we can be trusted...
HerpsAlot: My female does that when in her cage but once taken out
she is fine.
EvilMorphgod: That is what makes snakes tame....big big point!! I do
the same with Tokay geckos...I teach them that I am not their enemy...Nah,
I teach them I will not hurt them and that they can calm down a bit
and relax...it takes time, patience, technique and more importantly
the notion that this is what must be done!
HerpsAlot: I have my small burmese in a 90 gallon aquarium and
I use newspaper, I put Plexiglas over the whole top, and have a hole
where the light sits, I have a large litter pan for a water bowl, but,
when I mist the cage the news paper falls apart, what is the best way
to keep the humidity up?
EvilMorphgod: Her cage is her burrow..she will have a bit of
a diff approach about you coming in...and then trying to figure out
if you are food or fun. I would give it a nest box...tupperware, rubermaid
with a hole cut in it and then either pack it with sphagnum moss or
a towel that you can add some water to...you do not want that cage a
messy swamp~!!!!
HerpsAlot: Don't mist?
EvilMorphgod: Misting is fine but the hide will hold the humidity and
the snake will go to it....plexiglass will warp as it absorbs water
and such..
HerpsAlot: And one more question. What is the best way to tame her
down so that she wont freak out when I open her cage?
EvilMorphgod: Easy, always do the same thing...take a roll of paper
towels...with the end (hole) to her and put it in her face...she will
come up to it...as you do this....give her a few gentle pats....this
will condition her to realize that you are not food and it is time to
enjoy each other...make sure she at first does not turn around and grab
you thinking you are a rodent...the hole in the papertowel roll gives
a place for her nose to go and and protects you from an over zealous
feeder. Do this for a bit and this will condition your burm that it
is NOT FEEDING TIME!!!!
HerpsAlot: OK, thank you
EvilMorphgod: Watch the tongue flicks...she will tell you what is going
on..
HerpsAlot: short bad long good
EvilMorphgod: Don't rush in on her and give her a chance to think.
Snakes have three modes normally. Sleeping, feeding, and thinking....we
like the thinking one...
HerpsAlot: haha that sounds like some snakes I know
dragon_sanctuary: What's the best and most attractive terraria for
a large snake?
EvilMorphgod: I REALLY LIKE ANIMAL PLASTICS!!! They make great cages...and
for even bigger stuff....Habitat systems is GREAT!!!! I make most of
mine.... the better the cage the better I like keeping my snakes...makes
husbandry easier!!!!
dragon_sanctuary: cool! thank you!
boaphile: I have always believed that the big snakes are really the
ultimate in Reptile keeping. I really mean that. The little woman just
didn't want anything around that could get that big so I have been stuck
with Boa Constrictors ever since. Oh well... Hats off to you for continuing
to work those wonderful animals! Do you keep any of the BIG guys at
home?
EvilMorphgod: Jeff makes some great cages too!!!!!
boaphile: Thanks Kevi Wevi to the cage plug
EvilMorphgod: My home is attached to my business....
boaphile: You live in that warehouse? WIth the Retics?
EvilMorphgod: in the actual home.....I have three cats....three birds
including "the FEEK" and Kara...I am literally 30' from big
snakes at any time...literally!!!!
boaphile: Wow! So you can go check the stuff in the middle of the night
if you're like in your underwear?
EvilMorphgod: It is not a warehouse, it is more like reptile mental
ward....and now we have chickens...
boaphile: I see.
EvilMorphgod: I am over there all of the time and I made it this way
because I would freak over things and wonder what is going on...
boaphile: I would like to say that any place you live Kevi, is a metal
ward...
EvilMorphgod: It is too much part of me...
boaphile: I like it that way myself. Great stuff!!!
EvilMorphgod: Yes, jeff it is!!!
boaphile: No disrespect Kevi Wevi, but I need to go to bed. I am amazed
that anyone was actually able to get YOU to sit still for this long
without being restrained. I have to get up early to shave my ever expanding
head! Have a good chat Kevi Wevi! Nighty night and pleasant dreams...
Don't forget that CD.
EvilMorphgod: Jeff, you should try just one retic...you would be impressed...Boas...are
way different...but the retics..once you get a good one and understand
it...there is A lot going on!!!!
boaphile: Some day I WILL have Retics. When I have more room but don't
tell anyone...
EvilMorphgod: I am almost done with the new cd and getting ready to
print it!! The music is nearly all done...just a bit more vocals on
one song..
boaphile: How is the screaming? Better than ever?
EvilMorphgod: Sleep...paa paa, sleep! Yes, lots of screaming.....
EvilMorphgod: and shredding!!!!!!!! I did judas preist painkiller on
this one and I SCREAMED@@@@@!! Sooo Much!@!
jeffb: There is no money in rock & roll
PHFaust: BTW Crotalus RULES! I expect a copy for review.
EvilMorphgod: Yes, rock and drool equals no money...just like this
business!!! Thanks Cindy!
monitorman_nr: Would you say that snakes and monitors get to know you
as there keeper?
EvilMorphgod: Yes, not question...if you take the time for the animal
to understand you and not be terrified...it knows you...then you may
find them acting a bit differently...many people miss this point!!!
Establish trust......... with your big critters!!!!
cornball252: OK first off I have this 10 foot burm that we got
from the Everglades, He has the nastiest temper ever and I would really
like to calm him down any tips on how to?
EvilMorphgod: OK, that burm has been through a rough time. He
was captured....not a pleasant experience. So he hates people...we represent
BAD!!!!!
cornball252: I've had him for about 4 months and not any better.
EvilMorphgod: So he needs to have contact with you but not being able
to bite....in his cage and you coming near him will make things potentially
worse...he sees you, blast the glass and this enforces that you make
pain and fear reality!!!! He associates you with that pain..
cornball252: I have a towel over the front of his cage
EvilMorphgod: Try not to let this happen
cornball252: but every time I open his cage I reach in he lunges at
me.
EvilMorphgod: A towel is good..... a hide box that you can remove
with him in it is also good.....You can remove it...open it and put
a towel of his head.....the towel will also help you not get bit..the
next step is to touch him...at first he will flinch and hiss...just
keep doing it...at first make these episodes short...a short episode
w/o him getting hurt is good.
cornball252: When I try to touch him he does his and flinch but the
fixes right on to me ready to bite.
EvilMorphgod: The trick it to get him back into the cage w/o too much
fuss.
PHFaust: Do you suggest watching for the shudder?
EvilMorphgod: After doing this a few times it will start to
learn that you were able to touch it w/o hurting it...this is the start
of melting the iceburg...short positive episodes that end in gentle
withdrawal from it s cage are critical
cornball252: OK, so how to touch him with out him biting me? or trying
to
EvilMorphgod: Keep doing it and touching him...as time goes on you
should see the difference....he will not trust you when you stare at
him...
cornball252: Another quick question...a good size cage for a adult
burm?
EvilMorphgod: Use a towel and keep it between his head, teeth and you...even
if you piut his head into a pillow case or something to keep him in
the dark while you touch him.
EvilMorphgod: 8' x 30" is ideal...but a 6' x 30' will work...that
will handle an average adult female
EvilMorphgod: "the shudder"? What is that?
cornball252: Yea, its a male
PHFaust: Yeah the shudder. My burms do this... Its the warning.
EvilMorphgod: a 6' long cage would be great....
cornball252: what is it? the shudder
EvilMorphgod: before it explodes???? Hissing freaking out?
PHFaust: She will actually shake me off... More like a full body shrug.
Its usually a warning that they are NOT in the mood
cornball252: Oh so the flinching
EvilMorphgod: Remember, this snake has been through the equivalent
of torture to us and then telling us that everything is fine, trust
us, we won't torture you anymore...
cornball252: Also doesn't help that he has a huge scar behind his head.
EvilMorphgod: That shrug is exactly what you are saying. Saying leave
me alone...no long tongue flicks...defensive behavoir...hissing....all
that...
cornball252: long tongue flicks are bad?
EvilMorphgod: Hide box..
.
EvilMorphgod: Long tongue flicks are good...not ones that just
hang out there or short half tongue flicks that hang there. In and out
long tongue flicks area calm snake...are a calm snake indicator, use
a nice towel or even a blanket...get it between you and the snake...they
often will not strike when they are covered up and dark....you have
to get it used to being touched!!!!
JerMe: Do you let your large pythons hatch their own eggs or do you
incubate them? If you incubate, what is your approach to removing the
eggs from the momma?
EvilMorphgod: I take them away...we are making a video on this for
youtube soon...the soundtrack is let the bodies hit the floor...
PHFaust: Be sure I get the link so I can get it up on kingsnake kev
EvilMorphgod: Retic egg removal...Kara is working on it...got lots
of good action shots of protective mommies!!! Watch for the video!!
JerMe: Very nice. I look forward to seeing it.
EvilMorphgod: I was just taking eggs from one of our calicos medussa...
a bite fest for sure!!!!! I will let you know Cindy...
JerMe: Is it too risky to leave them?
EvilMorphgod: I have better control when I incubate them in
an incubator...leaving them means more eggs will fail to hatch!! Taking
them away safely. Use a towel and we even use a water dish to locate
her nose in while taking the eggs. Once you cover their head it gets
better. Some retics are fine about you taking their eggs and some are
NOT!! Some of my wild caught mutations are protective mommies and don't
want to give in, so we battle
PHFaust: What is your handling suggestion? With your staff when dealing
with the larger species is there a certain size that you require more
than one person to be present when the cage opens? And do you have suggestions
on that for the average keeper?
EvilMorphgod: Well, I have no worries about 20' snakes when they are
decent.
PHFaust: Well that is because you are SATAN!
EvilMorphgod: It really comes down to what my guys are capable
of. I have two main guys that deal with my big snakes..... believe it
or not one of them is 16 years old and he is AWESOME!!! He plays with
our baddest snakes and I really do not worry...we taught him finesse
I have certain techniques when dealing with the big angry snakes and
I teach this to them. Andy has learned them well and is a natural to
say the least... the 16 year old B is also the same....it is when the
person is not capable or tries to do things that they should not be
doing. Know your limitations and ALWAYS respect your animals...they
can hurt you if you are stupid!!!!!! They get trained first and work
their way up the size ladder. Ask me more on this if you want specifics.
2 people is always a good idea once they are 15' plus and a concern
PHFaust: Not a problem... I just usually suggest to average keepers
the 10 foot rule and was wondering in the store if you subscribe to
this.
EvilMorphgod: We are more like the 15' rule when they are a known problem...I
have some big ones that I am not worried by and my best guys have no
problems handling them by themselves...we have NEVER had a close call
regarding this. We rarely even get bit. I do suggest having a nice bottle
of listerine around in case one grabs you thinking you're food and you
wanting it to not think you are food...use that listerine!!!!
PHFaust: Cheap tequila works the same I assume?
EvilMorphgod: Yep, cheap tequila..... works the same...for sure!
HerpsAlot: Do you think that a hide box is necessary for a full
grown burm? They really don't have anything big enough for them to fit
into.
EvilMorphgod: Big burms..... I do not bother giving them hide
boxes. A 10' scared burm..yes...it would make the tame down thing work
much better!!!!
HerpsAlot: what is average size for male Burmese?
EvilMorphgod: a male burm...8 - 12'
cornball252: I have a few questions: First one I am trying to
start my own business in reptiles. How hard is it to make a living selling
herps and reptile products? Second I'm also looking for a job with reptiles
until I can get my business in full swing where should I look? U am
willing to move if it can pay my bills. I just really want a career
in reptiles breeding selling learning behavior. etc etc.
EvilMorphgod: Starting a business in reptiles. Dead honest answer....
Don't!!!
cornball252: really?
EvilMorphgod: Keep it as a hobby...even one that makes you extra money
by breeding and selling...once you jump in over your head....you will
find it very hard..the market is fickle.... the cost and overhead is
huge...
cornball252: I am getting my stock up to start selling at local expos
but I would like to have a web based online reptile store.
EvilMorphgod: A retail store selling them is a better idea...neat and
clean...creative.....
cornball252: like a pet shop?
EvilMorphgod: Makes sure you have enough money to hold you through
the start up and the hard times...I am not trying to be a jerk. I think
if I tried to do what I have done now I would completely have failed...it
is getting harder and harder. We have "peaked"...many people
have kept this and that...and now are settling on what ones work....
there was a time that eveyone wanted to keep indo monitors....chameleons.
That stuff would sell...now it does not..... the animals are the same....
they are still great but people are more fickle...
cornball252: So pretty much follow the market?
EvilMorphgod: A good job and a nice collection as a hobby is best in
my mind
cornball252: Any other good jobs in herps, besides opening a shop?
EvilMorphgod: Don't forget I live this and have lived it for 15 years...I
used to work in the high tech field and have two degrees in comp electronics
and comp science...and I left to do this. Work for one of the big boys...enjoy
their animals and make yourself valuable to them through dedication
and knowing the animals..if you can breed them then you will help the
business continue...
EvilMorphgod: Follow the market....nope, I don't do that...
cornball252: How would you start in that though?
EvilMorphgod: I look for what is cool and try to stick to it...wait
for others to realize it...and hope I can breed it! I would go work
for BHB..or the bells.......
cornball252: BHB is located in what state?
EvilMorphgod: I would not... start my own business unless I had money
and money to burn...start as a hobby...breed from your house and if
you can make that happen expand...
cornball252: I'm acquainted with Brian so I could talk to him.
EvilMorphgod: don't go overboard unless you like jumping out windows
and hoping that there is a soft mattress to save you!
cornball252: Thanks for all the input it has really helped me.
EvilMorphgod: Michigan. I wish I could tell you magical things...but
I am being honest!!
cornball252: I'm going to try that with my burm tomorrow, I am grateful
for your honesty.
HerpsAlot: I rescued a male Burmese and he was kept in a 55
gallon when he was 7.5' that was in July he is now only 8' do you think
he could have growth stunting?
EvilMorphgod: No, he will grow...they always grow....
HerpsAlot: He's just slow?
EvilMorphgod: His overall growth may be a bit diminished but he will
certainly continue to grow. What do you feed him?
HerpsAlot: OK that was it, he gets 2 large rats a week.
EvilMorphgod: Keep him warm and feed him lots and he will grow!!! He
could eat more...if he does, he will grow!!!
HerpsAlot: I'll try 3 rats this week.
HerpsAlot: I just don't want to over do it
EvilMorphgod: feed him defrosted!!
HerpsAlot: He gets recent killed. I have a co2 chamber for mice and
rats.
EvilMorphgod: smart...PERFECT!!!!
HerpsAlot: I just can't find rabbits.
EvilMorphgod: I have a problem getting rabbits too!!!
HerpsAlot: Are rabbits better then rats?
EvilMorphgod: I get little still born pigs instead
HerpsAlot: Mine's not big enough for pigs yet
EvilMorphgod: Rabbits will make them grow faster and bigger. Mines,
as in landmines?
HerpsAlot: no
EvilMorphgod: a fresh pig can be a few pounds....ok, landmines....I
don't know much about..cept they blow off your legs...
HerpsAlot: Hes 8 ft but he has no girth on him and he won't thicken
up.
EvilMorphgod: yeah, I'm a joker, guinea pigs. He may want to breed
at this time of the year too.
HerpsAlot: I heard that they were not good to feed.
EvilMorphgod: Higher levels of testosterone may hinder appetite on
some snakes...
EvilMorphgod: I feed them!!! they work great!
HerpsAlot: I'll try them if I can find them.
EvilMorphgod: I buy them frozen, Rodent pro has them.
fruitbat_nr: First I would like to say how impressed I am with your
grammatical skills. Second I would like to say Crotalus and H.I.M. rules,
and I was wondering if you saw the David Letterman and Jack Hannah clip
that is creating a big stink over on Fauna, and what you think of that?
EvilMorphgod: My specialty is NEWTS Fruitfat....Are we talking about
B c? Him stinks!!!!!!!The band!!!!
love metal stinks!!!!!!! Yes I saw the clip...Ummm....
PHFaust: You can get away with leaving it at that kev! :)
fruitbat_nr: I call NERD alot and always hear HIM in the background,
does that help breeding?
EvilMorphgod: Now if it was a forest cobra there would have been issues!!!!!!
You hear CROTALUS playing..... not HIM
fruitbat_nr: yeah they are cccrrrraaaaazzzzzyyyy. Oh, I couldn't
tell the difference sorry.
EvilMorphgod: We also play the book of heavy metal all of the time...and
latley...megadeth...Elmer fudd kill de wabbit...In crotalus I scream
and whine like a baby....him sings love songs....You call us????
fruitbat_nr: Sometimes, I like to talk to this guy Mike
EvilMorphgod: Obviously you call to talk to us about NEWTS!!! New England
Newt!!!
fruitbat_nr: that works there
EvilMorphgod: Mike works in the bathroom. Pinkie D.
fruitbat_nr: What extension is the newt department, I never can find
it
EvilMorphgod: He specializes in "cleanup' mishaps. Extension......6
6 6...the number of the NEWT!!!!! Slow this time of the year!!
fruitbat_nr: I think I always hear flushing when I have had him on
the phone for longer then 3 minutes
EvilMorphgod: Nope...you are pulling my leg
PHFaust: Yep, just finishing up....
EvilMorphgod: Yes...we are chatting....Now Andy...do you have
something real to say? We are hatching some new and cool crazy weird
retics!!!!!
bigc89: Hey who knows about rosy boas?
EvilMorphgod: Pics soon!! I am the ROSY BOA GOD!!!!!
fruitbat_nr: Evilmorphgod knows about rosy boas
EvilMorphgod: Trigattatattattatataaaaaaa
PHFaust: Big Did you want to ask Kev?
EvilMorphgod: merrya lepiusss, mid BAJA!!!
bigc89: Good I need help.
EvilMorphgod: Me too!
CrocodylusAcutus: lol
EvilMorphgod: ask away, laa laa laaa.....ibbie dibbie....dick wick
whack
bigc89: My rosy is about 20 inches long I'm feeding it 3 pinkies
2 times a week good or bad?
EvilMorphgod: Good. The snake will tell you what is good...they generally
will eat their fill and then go hide...
bigc89: Or should I feed it fuzzies?
EvilMorphgod: If you feed him/it a big meal and let it be a
pig...then try to hold it then it may become an issue...like after over
eating on Thanksgiving!!
bigc89: I don't feed it in the tank
EvilMorphgod: Fuzzies are better than pinks since they have
better bone structure...and make a better food item!! More calcium!!!
bigc89: How many?
EvilMorphgod: You take it out and condition it to eat in another container....good
idea,..responsible. As many as it wants to make a nice lump...not a
huge enormous lump...
bigc89: OK, is live or frozen better?
EvilMorphgod: Frozen is better...easier to digest, safer for the snake
and more humane. I like rodents....but I feed many of them to my critters!!!
bigc89: But I have heard and done research when frozen they
lose vitamins or something like that.
EvilMorphgod: I bet they may lose a bit in the vit. department...but
the food animal quality is still quite good and the snakes end up being
fine. I have many snakes that eat nothing but frozen and they appear
perfect!!!!
bigc89: Does that mean vitamin supplements?
EvilMorphgod: No vit supplements.
HerpsAlot: Should large constrictors be taken out to be fed
or left in their tank?
EvilMorphgod: I leave mine in their cages...we really do not have much
choice.... but it may be a good idea...to condition your animal not
to eat in its cage...you know in a home situation....feeding dead prey
is also a good idea...live prey makes for a possibly more aggressive
feeder.
HerpsAlot: I agree, but when a Burmese gets 16' and weighs 200
pounds, don't you think its a bit hard to pull it out to eat once a
week?
EvilMorphgod: Just a food item that was fed a decent diet
EvilMorphgod: A big burm like that takes dedication..although if it
actually weighed that...then it needs to see Jenny! Jenny Crag that
is!!!!
EvilMorphgod: Way, way too fat!!!!
HerpsAlot: just an estimation
bigc89: What's the best substrate?
EvilMorphgod: But a big snake like that would be a likely candidate
to feed in its cage..... but when they are small that is when you are
getting to know them and teach them what it is all about.
EvilMorphgod: Newspaper seems to be the best....time and time again...for
us at NERD
bigc89: But that does not hold humidity.
EvilMorphgod: I also like to take employee jackets and use them too.
Yes...it does not...then you the keeper need to modify the enclosure
to hold some of the humidity in...
bigc89: I use aspen and the humidity goes 2 nothing sometimes.
EvilMorphgod: Aspen stinks for humidity and get black mold if kept
wet...cypress is way better!!!!!!
bigc89: What about that eco earth stuff?
Dave26: And if you can't get cypress?
MoeRateb: I use coco soft.
EvilMorphgod: Eco earth is good...works great but not easy when you
have big snakes...plus it can be messy!
Dave26: I like aspen with a humid hide
PHFaust: Newspaper is the best for big snakes. They can be so
very messy.
EvilMorphgod: Just have to paper heavy...not like our own Andy at NERD..we
nicknamed him three sheet pete...
bigc89: What about sand? I heard that you can keep them in sand.
EvilMorphgod: He is sooo lazy about using lots of paper...if he was
here he would hide...
Dave26: Wife makes me keep the tanks looking nice if I am going
to have them all over the house and newspaper doesn't look great.
DWEEZIL_nr: Newspaper forces you to clean more.
EvilMorphgod: Newspaper does not look so great...sand just stinks!!
No good!!!
Sofi_nr: Newspaper is cleaner and easier to replace and cheaper.
Dave26: I like cypress but it not available here.
EvilMorphgod: I have to buy my newspaper.....
jeffb: sand gets into everything
EvilMorphgod: Andy will sometimes paper a giant 8' 3' cage with a tv
guide. Jeff, sand gets into your thong I suppose?
jeffb: I look better than Borat though.
EvilMorphgod: Better than Borat's manager? Guide guy?
jeffb: Dunno about that.
CrocodylusAcutus: Do you prefer snakes to lizards? I've personally
always had a preference for legged reptiles, but I love the snakes as
well.
EvilMorphgod: I think I like my snakes best...but I LOVE LOVE my big
water monitor P and could not imagine having big awesome friendly water
monitors to stare at!!! A hard choice but snakes for me!!!
CrocodylusAcutus: I hear ya, I love my waters too
EvilMorphgod: They are sooo awesome once they are friendly...and
they stink when they are NOT!!!!
DWEEZIL_nr: Sharp teeth and sharp tail
djcboa2: how big should my female ball be before she breeds for the
first time?
EvilMorphgod: 1300 grams or soo...1500 is great and safe!!!
bigc89: Is it normal that my rosy does not burrow?
EvilMorphgod: Is it normal.... I would say yes..since it may
have a hide area that it's happy with...
PHFaust: And the final question of the evening shall go to The Man
Himself, Jeff B
EvilMorphgod: Yes Jeff...hunt and peck, hunt and PECK!!! Durp.
jeffb: When will you be making your next public appearance at a reptile
event?
EvilMorphgod: Be creative
jeffb: I built all of kingsnake.com with just 2 fingers.
EvilMorphgod: Chicago... I will be there to look in Daytona. Jeff,
I bet you did and what an accomplishment those two fingers have made.
PHFaust: On behalf of Jeff Barringer and all of us here at kingsnake.com,
Thank You for taking your time to chat with us. Thank you Kevin!
