Why Keep Snakes as Pets?
Many people think those of us who keep snakes and other reptiles as pets are perhaps a bit off our rocker. For most people, a pet is a fuzzy animal that can be petted, played with, and loves us back. Obviously, reptiles, and especially snakes, don't fall in that category. While we can handle snakes and enjoy their company, they don't offer much in the way of "loving attention" back. So why in the world would anyone want to keep snakes? Several reasons, actually.
- Snakes are fascinating animals, and often misunderstood until you take the time to study them.
- It can be educational for us, our friends, families and others.
- Some species are in danger in the wild. Captive breeding and maintenance helps keep the species alive and takes pressure off the wild population.
- They're just plain fun to have around!
Do Snakes Have Personalities?
Many people ask if snakes have personalities, the same way dogs and cats do. The answer is both yes and no, depending on how you look at it.
- Snakes do not have the range of emotion that mammals do. They clearly can feel anger and fear, but beyond that it is anybody's guess.
- Every snake has its own individual behavioral traits. Some are very quiet and calm, others nervous and nippy. Some are just downright mean.
- Snakes do seem to be able to identify their usual handlers, probably through taste and smell. Some even show a preference to a specific handler within the household.
What does all the above prove? Nothing for certain, but it does indicate that snakes are individuals, with individual traits. If we consider these traits as "personality traits", then yes, they have personalities. If we consider them behavior based on instinct and learning, then no, they don't have personalities, just behaviors.