TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Introduction 1
  • Chapter One: Biological Information 3
  • Taxonomy, Origin and Distribution 4
  • Size, Life Span, and Physical Appearance 5
  • Sub – Species of Gopher Snakes 6
  • Quick Facts 9
  • Chapter Two: Gopher Snakes as Pets 11
  • What Makes It a Great Pet 12
  • Temperament and Behavioral Characteristics with other Pets 15
  • Pros and Cons of Gopher Snakes 16
  • FAQs about Snake Licensing 18
  • Cost of Owning a Snake 20
  • Chapter Three: Purchasing and Selecting a Healthy Breed 25
  • Where to Purchase an Gopher Snake Breed 26
  • How to Spot a Good Snake Breeder 28
  • Characteristics of a Healthy Breed 31
  • List of Breeders and Rescue Websites 32
  • Chapter Four: Habitat Requirements for Gopher Snakes 38
  • How to Set Up Your Snake’s Enclosure 39
  • Regulating Temperature 42
  • Chapter Five: Nutrition and Feeding 45
  • Nutritional Needs of Gopher Snakes 46
  • Feeding Conditions 48
  • Feeding Amount and Frequency 49
  • How to Feed Your Gopher Snake 49
  • Chapter Six: Maintenance for Gopher Snakes 51
  • Spot Cleaning Your Snake’s Enclosure 52
  • Guidelines on How to Clean Your Snake’s Enclosure 53
  • Husbandry Tips 55
  • Illnesses caused by Unsanitary Living Condition 56
  • Chapter Seven: Dealing and Handling Your Gopher Snakes 59
  • Dealing with Your Gopher Snake 60
  • Taming Your Gopher Snake 62
  • FAQs on How to Handle and Tame Your Snake 63
  • Chapter Eight: Breeding Your Gopher Snakes 67
  • Sexual Dimorphism 68
  • How to Set Up the Right Breeding Conditions 69
  • Ovulation and Laying 73
  • Incubation and Hatching of Eggs 74
  • Successful Breeding 74
  • Life Cycle of a Snake 75
  • Chapter Nine: Common Diseases and Treatments for Gopher Snake 77
  • Common Health Problems 78
  • Minor Problems: 78
  • Lack of Appetite 78
  • Vomiting and Regurgitation 80
  • Major Problems: 82
  • Acariasis 82
  • Pneumonia 84
  • Chapter Ten: Care Sheet and Summary 87
  • Habitat Requirements for Gopher Snakes: 92
  • Nutritional Requirements 94
  • Maintenance for Gopher Snakes 95
  • Guidelines on How to Clean Your Snake’s Enclosure 95
  • Dealing and Handling Your Gopher Snakes 96
  • Glossary of Snake Terms 101
  • Index 109
  • Photo Credits 115
  • References 117

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