Sulcatas and Wild Snakes

[DarkerGraphic]

Hi all,

It’s that time of year again… yep fall… and with dropping temperatures comes the relocation of my three sulcatas into a shed with supplemental heat in the forms of lights and a heater.

While checking them this morning I found a Eastern grey rat snake had nestled up with my largest tortoise under the heat lamp. A small snake, I feared more for it than any concern for my big guy, but it brings up a topic I would like some feedback on.

The region I’m in (Gulf coast of FL) has plenty of harmless snakes (for us humans) as well as a few pit vipers (cottonmouths and rattlers). Has anyone had any experience with snakes entering enclosures, hanging around, or interfering with their tortoises? Should I be concerned about specific species should they find their way into the enclosure? Is there anything you recommend doing to keep them out?

Would appreciate the groups collective thoughts and wisdom.

Thanks,
Rick

 

[Ink]

I had a baby copperhead hiding under my tortoise's water bowl. I picked up the water bowl, there it was... Got my tortoise and went inside.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

I have an EVERGLADES rat snake on my property.
I wish I had more of them.
To me their potential benefits far outweigh and potentially issues.
(In fact i can't think of one)