Ribbon Snake Eastern Health Information

Usually, aspen shavings or newspaper makes good substrates, although because of the aquatic nature of the Eastern Ribbon Snake, newspaper may need to be replaced frequently. A bowl of water large enough for the snake to entirely submerge itself in is adequate, although a container large enough to swim in would be more desirable. Generally, however, the land area should have fairly low humidity levels. During the day, temperatures between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit are appropriate for the warm end of the enclosure, with the cool end about 70 degrees Fahrenheit . At night the temperature should be about 65 degrees. Feeder fish and insects may be the preferred diet for Eastern Ribbon Snakes, and pinkie mice may be a good dietary item if they are accepted.

Breeding
Eastern Ribbon Snakes usually breed between April and May after a period of brumation. Males are usually shorter than females. Females may also have thicker bodies than males. Between ten and 12 live young will be born some time between July and August. If the eggs have been left in the terrarium, the hatchlings should be removed from the terrarium as soon as possible or the parents may eat them.