we have a few black snakes living in our springhouse and we want to mark them to find out exactly how many we do have, any suggestions?
2006-12-12 09:12:43 · 5 answers · asked by DRAGON LADY 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
Snakes are not easy to mark because any external marking disappears when the snake sheds its skin. Now days, researchers use electronic markers called pit tags that work just like electronic ID badges - this technology costs quite a bit of money, and probably isn't worth it for counting a few snakes. Before pit tags, scientists usually marked reptiles by creating some sort of unique pattern by clipping scales. Not much else you can do without injuring the snake.
2006-12-12 09:24:29 · answer #1 · answered by formerly_bob 7 · 3⤊ 1⤋
If you want a reliable and cheap way to mark snakes, go with anal scale clippings. Come up with a unique system for your snakes and mark each of them with a different pattern.
2006-12-12 12:10:06 · answer #2 · answered by kurt942003 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have marked reptiles with a sharpie...it will not last forever, but for at least a week or so.
2006-12-12 13:28:14 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Well, obviously arm bands & leg bands are out of the question. You could use coloured nail polish to paint markings &/or numbers on them (preferably on the top of their head). They will eventually molt them off, though.
2006-12-12 09:17:44 · answer #4 · answered by borscht 6 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Try a sharpie!
2006-12-12 09:19:56 · answer #5 · answered by Wounded duckmate 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋