PETS : Low-Rollers Come Into Own

Despite the traditional bad rap against snakes--that whole Eden thing for example--and the queasy reaction the slithery reptiles often elicit from people, the cold-blooded critters are becoming an increasingly popular pet option.

Because snakes are quiet, can be inexpensive and are low-maintenance contrasted with the run-of-the-mill mammalian pet, more and more pet-seekers are picking them over the traditional dog or cat companion.

Snake owners also say there is a certain mysterious attraction to the fork-tongued, legless creatures that harkens back to a prehistoric age. “It’s their eyes--they don’t have eyelids, you know--and the way they move,” said boa owner Jack Ramser, 14, of Anaheim. “It’s spooky but very cool.”

Prehistoric Pets in Fountain Valley, which recently expanded to meet the increased demand for reptiles and amphibians, typically sells five snakes a day, store employee Brian Prenger said. “A lot of people are really getting into this right now,” Prenger said.

Prenger said many customers are looking for big snakes, such as the Burmese python ($160 to $700), which can grow up to 22 feet, or the popular Colombian red tail boas ($70 to $160), which usually stay under 10 feet.

Someone looking for a less intimidating house pet might opt for a smaller species, such as the pencil-thin garter snake ($15 to $25), which might grow to two feet. Prenger said his store and others often sell snakes with a starter kit that includes a glass tank, a heat lamp, vitamins and other necessities.

Several pet shop owners recommend that first-time owners consider the tame, non-biting ball python ($70 to $150), a dark brown and tan snake named for its defense tactic of rolling up when in danger.

“They’re really good because they’re easy to take care of, they’re nice and docile” said Leslyn Hartley, manager of the Pet Pantry in Orange. “And even when they’re full grown, they usually fit in the palms of your hands when they roll up. Parents like them because, like other snakes, you don’t have to feed and take care of them every day like a dog or cat.”

As far as feeding, many snakes, such as the ball python, require a live rodent (which cost from $1 to $3 each) at each meal. Water snakes, logically, dine on fish, while certain other species prefer insects or rodents at dinner time. Many snakes, such as the ball python, require feeding only every two weeks, while others can go three months between meals.

The snake’s eating habits along with its maximum length are considerations pet-buyers should take into account before any purchase.

Because many snakes are smuggled illegally into the country, consumers should be wary of non-professional dealers. Fines and confiscation could await owners of illegally kept creatures. Also, prospective snake owners should inquire at purchase about permit requirements, which vary from city to city and set restrictions on factors such as snake size and poisonous species.