Behavioral Health 2: Cleaning and Handling Stress in Snakes and other Reptiles

Reptiles respond to stress in similar ways as other animals, including humans. Handling for Enclosure cleaning can be a source of stress. The constraints of captivity contribute to psychological and behavioral compromise (stress) to snakes and other reptiles under captive management. Steps to mitigate captivity stress should be part of the routine care plan. Failure to address this can result in stereotypies, maladaptive behavior, absence of normal behavior, and general poor welfare.

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References
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