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
