Posted by Katie on September 18, 2003

Q: My son received 2 Western Ribbon Snakes from a friend. They will eat nothing but feeder fish. I've tried earthworms,slugs and scented pinkies. I don't want them to become vitamin deficient.They're very friendly, easy to handle snakes and I want to ensure they stay healthy. Is there someplace you can order little frogs from? Or if I just let them go wild..I imagine they'll be able to fend for themselves? I don't know if they're wild caught or captive bred, does it matter?

Thanks for any / all help !

A: Your local pet dealer may have an idea on feeder frogs although I'm unaware of any that are available. Ribbon Snakes are especially fond of frogs although I could believe that fish provide the same basic nutrients. If you're concerned, I'd get some reptile vitamins and see if you can insert into the fish. I realize you're probably feeding only live fish but if presented "correctly" you may be able to get a snake to take a recently killed fish with vitamins. If you do decide to release them into the wild, I'd do so soon so they can find an appropriate hibernating location (you didn't mention where you live but I assume it gets cold in the winter?). Be sure to release in appropriate habitat as well. Maybe a local nature center would be a good location if the habitat suits. Good luck.

John Wiessinger ( September 18, 2003)