Eastern Diamondback Care Sheet

[Georgia]

For all the experienced Eastern Diamondback keepers to post
Tips, Facts, and what to DO and NOT TO DO while keeping the greatest rattlesnake on Earth.
Post everything you know about keeping these snakes, housing, pics of enclosures, temperatures that seem to work the best.

[Georgia]

I think thia could seriously help some people. Theres not much on the internet for this topic.

[Will0W783]

This is a great thread idea! I keep an adult pair of EDBs. I keep ambient temps between 80-85; use cypress mulch as substrate, and prefer front - opening sliding door cages. Mine are both calm snakes, but they have a strong feeding response at times, and I feel that sliding doors allow me better protection. I hook and tail, or use two hooks. NEVER free - handle a rattlesnake (or any hot)- they may seem docile but all it takes is one bite. EDB venom is a strong hemotoxic, cardiotoxic complex capable of causing extreme tissue destruction, coagulation problems and heart failure. There's a member on here who seems proud of free handling- infuriates me. Every time a venomous keeper is bitten, it brings negative attention on all of us and the government would love to ban our hobby!

For enclosures, make sure it's at least as long as the snake; these guys are active. Leaf litter/branches/stones, etc to create a woodland feel make the cage look more natural and can provide comfort and less stress for the rattler.

I feed every 10-14 days for an established, healthy adult. My girl needs to put on weight after having babies so I feed her weekly. Several smaller prey items seem to be digested better than one large one.

EDBS are hardy, impressive, generally easy-to - keep rattlesnakes. They're by far my favorite buzztail!

[Georgia]

Thanks! I hope it helps someone.

[Will0W783]

Me too. My guys seem to be thriving this way.

How is yours set up?