Just a quick point

[smy_749]

I think I'm going to agree with Derek on this one, from what we know at this point in time. If in the future they prove otherwise then thats fine, but when I see snakes I see an animal that evolved to be the perfect predator and stay alive, and thats basically it. If humans were small enough for our snakes to eat with ease, I don't think they would think twice about eating their owner either.

Thats why I keep snakes to observe them and marvel at how cool they are, but I don't name them and "hang out" with mine or feel the need to pet them.

For the keepers who say that their snakes do enjoy their company, and enjoy affection etc. etc. maybe Dereks argument about the rat is not the greatest. You could argue that he just gets confused etc. but when he knows its you and not a rat he loves you. The real test is to leave your snake to free roam, leave his cage open, and see how long he sticks around to be your buddy then..

As for the original topic, whether the snake will utilize his environment, know the difference, prefer one to the other, I think it may differ from species to species but we can't prove if the snake enjoys one thing more than the other, because we haven't figured out how to ask them. I was just pointing out the fact that mine utilized what was provided, rather than sitting around doing nothing. I don't know if he is having 'fun' though

[Derek Roddy]

Originally Posted by smy_749

I was just pointing out the fact that mine utilized what was provided, rather than sitting around doing nothing. I don't know if he is having 'fun' though

Oh yeah they will. They'll use and inspect any and everything that comes in their cage.
I provide all my animals with a place to climb, 2 hides....sometimes 3, several different basking areas, etc....they'll use all of it.
Even the BHP which aren't known as "climbers" will be sitting on the branches I give them from time to time.
Sometimes I even give them things from the yard (bark, pile of dirt, etc) just to stimulate them.

D