The experimental Animal in Biomedical Research (Vol. II) - Care, Husbandry, and Well-Being: Snakes (1995)

Kiel, J. L.

Abstract

Very useful recommendations for the species-specific, adequate housing of snakes. In many respects, snakes, like all poikilotherms, are more interactive with their environments than mammals or birds. Therefore, the design of their artificial habitats demand great care if the animals are to be kept healthy. ... Although no one can state for certain that snakes become affectionate to humans, handling and stroking does calm and appears to benefit the health and well-being of many snakes.