A study of individual differences in spatial use of captive sidewinder rattlesnakes Crotalus cerastes

AUTHORS JUANITA PARDO-SANCHEZ; ASHLEY TAYLOR; EMILY G. WEIGEL; JOSEPH R. MENDELSON III
Abstract – Many species of vipers are known to use ambush sites repeatedly; a phenomenon presumably informed by chemical cues from prey. Experimentally; we limited chemical cue availability; recorded site selection in five captive-born sidewinders <i>Crotalus cerastes</i> during their first active season. Snakes showed individual differences among the study subjects in spatial movement across the season; repeatedly reused specific sites in their enclosures; suggesting spatial memory; individual differences in choices of resting sites. Individual variability in spatial-; object-use; associated memories suggests attention to such should be considered in developing husbandry routines for these captive individuals.

The Herpetological Bulletin is a quarterly publication in English. It includes full-length papers, natural history notes, book reviews, and other items of general herpetological interest. Emphasis is placed on natural history and conservation as well as captive care that includes breeding, husbandry, veterinary, and behavioural aspects.

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AUTHORS: JUANITA PARDO-SANCHEZ, ASHLEY TAYLOR, EMILY G. WEIGEL & JOSEPH R. MENDELSON III

Abstract – Many species of vipers are known to use ambush sites repeatedly, a phenomenon presumably informed by chemical cues from prey. Experimentally, we limited chemical cue availability and recorded site selection in five captive-born sidewinders Crotalus cerastes during their first active season. Snakes showed individual differences among the study subjects in spatial movement across the season and repeatedly reused specific sites in their enclosures, suggesting spatial memory and individual differences in choices of resting sites. Individual variability in spatial- and object-use and associated memories suggests attention to such should be considered in developing husbandry routines for these captive individuals.