Our Rodent Breeding Setup!

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  • Опубликовано: 26 июл 2021
  • People have been asking for a long time to see our rat and mice breeding setup. We've been hesitant because we're worried people will be upset that we breed rodents for reptile food... But we hope that today's video helps explain why we do what we do (hey, a snake's gotta eat), and what we provide to make the rodents' lives as good as feasibly possible! Oh boy, I'm nervous about this one... O_O
    Check out Freedom Breeder's products here!
    www.freedombreeder.com/
    Link to the mouse rack we use: www.freedombreeder.com/produc...
    Link to the smaller rat racks we use: www.freedombreeder.com/produc...
    Link to the larger rat rack we use:
    www.freedombreeder.com/produc...
    Learn more about the Levoit Core 400s here!
    www.amazon.com/LEVOIT-Purifie...
    SNAKE DISCOVERY MERCH!
    www.snakediscoverystore.com/
    SNAKE DISCOVERY PATREON
    / snakediscovery
    Music by BenSound and Epidemic Sound

Комментарии • 9 тыс.

  • @helloemma
    @helloemma 2 года назад +5417

    Not going to lie, as someone who has owned rats, this does make me sad. BUT, this is probably the best care I have ever seen for feeders rats/mice, which does make me feel a bit better.

    • @violentvixen592
      @violentvixen592 2 года назад +545

      Considering most breeders for feeder rodents tend to keep the rodents in communal bins, I would say this is much better quality of life comparatively. I love rats and rodents, so I completely get the tint of sadness. But also, if it helps, remember that they won't be in there long, unlike pets n_n. Also also if it helps, I think we can all agree that Emily and Ed will treat the rodents with as much care and respect as they do with all their other animals.

    • @M011y.
      @M011y. 2 года назад +288

      I own pet mice and it’s heartbreaking for me to see this. It’s not so much that they’ll be eaten, because the snakes etc. needs to eat, it’s that these rodents do not get to exhibit they’re natural behaviours. They are intelligent animals and deserve to be given a happy life, no matter how long it will be.

    • @porcuMoose
      @porcuMoose 2 года назад +101

      the dumbo rats and special hair morphs(like the hairless) broke my heart the most

    • @itsthatonechickagaincallth7843
      @itsthatonechickagaincallth7843 2 года назад +256

      Honestly, this is better than the care I've seen from most rat owners, not even breeders.

    • @ohrats731
      @ohrats731 2 года назад +205

      @@itsthatonechickagaincallth7843 ugh yeah it’s sad that a lot of people keep their pet rats/mice worse than this. When I was little we had a horrible cage for two rats but the internet is so prevalent now there’s really no excuse to keep doing it. These racks do make me kind of sad but you’ll never see breeders using pet setups because they’ll go out of business. I wish there were a way though. What makes me feel better is knowing that they will keep the cages clean and have the air purifier

  • @haleylikescheese
    @haleylikescheese 2 года назад +6210

    My mind was BLOWN when Emily said that she is 5'11". You can never tell with cameras!

    • @sheepandotter
      @sheepandotter 2 года назад +206

      true I didn’t know she was that short

    • @chiochi4142
      @chiochi4142 2 года назад +133

      Some times I thought she was very tall

    • @blep2695
      @blep2695 2 года назад +98

      Im 5'3 right now and I'm ten ( I don't mind sharing my age, I know its wrong in certain conditions. No need to say anything about me and i shouldn't share my age)

    • @wolftango6084
      @wolftango6084 2 года назад +206

      Dang, she's tall!

    • @blep2695
      @blep2695 2 года назад +37

      @@wolftango6084 She is.

  • @zoefix7326
    @zoefix7326 Год назад +1862

    As a pet rat owner, this makes me very happy because even though these rats are meant to be food and you could easily just throw them in teeny tiny bins with just food and water and call it a day you made some effort to make their lives slightly more interesting. I love my pet rats but I understand that all pets need to eat, I’m glad your treating the feeder rats well though ☺️

    • @rando-1.0
      @rando-1.0 Год назад +10

      Yes!

    • @theonewithallthepets8503
      @theonewithallthepets8503 Год назад +9

      same

    • @spinnyquack56
      @spinnyquack56 Год назад +31

      if you do believe that, as a "pet rat" owner, then you are no better than the people breeding rodents in horrible conditions.
      The bins are incredibly small, rats CANNOT possibly live in there without suffering any consequences to their health being. I would do some more research on pet rats because clearly, you're missing out on stuff...

    • @zoefix7326
      @zoefix7326 Год назад +95

      @@spinnyquack56 actaully I did do months of research, my rolling group lives in a double critter nation with hammocks ropes bridges toys all of the stuff, they have their own cat tree and get 2 hours of play time daily, their lives are full of enrichment and they are very happy so yeah. I don’t think I’m as bad as a rodent breeder

    • @poopfart7618
      @poopfart7618 Год назад +57

      @@spinnyquack56 how would you fix it then? they need to feed their snakes and do it efficiently in one room. They are already doing a lot in terms of enrichment

  • @ollie7173
    @ollie7173 7 месяцев назад +369

    As a rat owner, it makes me so happy to see them being treated humanely, even if they are feeders there’s no excuse for them to be abused, so I appreciate the time and effort you put into making sure they’re happy when they’re in your care

  • @mondooowada3537
    @mondooowada3537 2 года назад +7086

    This is infinitely better than most lab or breeding setups. The fact that any one of these feeders could be taken out and kept as a well adjusted pet is a sign of good care, good genes, and good health.

    • @cells-n-stuff
      @cells-n-stuff 2 года назад +357

      In the U.S. any good lab has to go through IACUC, who has strict rules to how lab animals must be treated. For mice/rats they will need to be kept in social groups, have hides/enrichment (including toys, nesting bedding, and treats), and they also must be fed a diet approved by the ULAR. Most labs also have a veterinarian on call who will care for their needs at anytime of day or night. Most labs I've been to have large enclosures and the animals are cared for very well. This wasn't always the case but now they have cracked down on any mistreatments, it has gotten significantly better for the animals. Can't say I have any experience with breeding set ups, but hopefully they care for the animals as much as Emily and Ed.

    • @dragonsoul123
      @dragonsoul123 2 года назад +164

      @@cells-n-stuff same in Europe. Minimum size of enclosures, having the animals in proper conditions, enough food and water. And it is a damned hussle to get approval for experiments, especially those including harming the animal. Which, sadly needs to be done. You can't make a study on pain with no pain involved. But it is very strictly regulated. And it is forbidden to teat cosmetics on animals in the EU. Only medical testing. Which is very strictly regulated unless you work with euthanized animals only (e.g. to harvest cells/tissue). Then the faciluty you buy them off must stick to all the rules.

    • @dragonsoul123
      @dragonsoul123 2 года назад +63

      @@narichan yes of course. This is not compareable. But it has to be noted that the times of animals being held in caged whete they can barely move, starving and hurting, are fortunately over in well regulated countries such as the EU or the US.

    • @cells-n-stuff
      @cells-n-stuff 2 года назад +26

      @@narichan What? That's what I said. Most labs I've been to have had Large enclosures and the animals have been treated well. I'm not sure where you got the idea that I said labs use these specific enclosures would pass. I just wanted to explain some lab conditions so that any fallacious ideas on how animals are treated are not promoted...

    • @veganforanimals1298
      @veganforanimals1298 2 года назад +44

      I don't want to hate, but fact is, that mice and rats need more space than in this video. I have 4 mice myself and keep them in a 150 centimeters high and 80 by 80 centimeters square. I see every single day that they need this space and even if you breed or if this animals will be food for others, they always should have an incredible live till they have to die. So even if in this video the set up is better than somewhere else, it's still not okay.

  • @johnDoe-gv8si
    @johnDoe-gv8si 2 года назад +8555

    Even the animals destined to be feed are treated with affection and dignity and I really appreciate that you go through that effort.

    • @sheepandotter
      @sheepandotter 2 года назад +51

      yea :D

    • @tiskky7385
      @tiskky7385 2 года назад +171

      they dont even have water dishes to clean themselves or proper food and should never be kept in tubs so no and not to mention the wood shavings

    • @milkfather1781
      @milkfather1781 2 года назад +44

      @@tiskky7385 their entire life is to be fed to reptiles. Their welfare doesn't matter.

    • @Tallglassofredwine
      @Tallglassofredwine 2 года назад +289

      @@milkfather1781 who thinks like this? This isn’t how nature works.

    • @sara.wyssog
      @sara.wyssog 2 года назад +12

      I have to agree 👍

  • @michelledoolin3769
    @michelledoolin3769 Год назад +334

    I know this is an old video, but I am rematching this one. Another excellent point not mentioned is that by rotating the males through the bins, all the females get a nice break in between litters so they aren't over bred. Awesome care as always from Emily and Ed.

    • @Birds4lifeAnya
      @Birds4lifeAnya 6 месяцев назад +3

      19:30 smh

    • @jasmine6877
      @jasmine6877 3 месяца назад +2

      @@Birds4lifeAnya huh ?

    • @mfraye12
      @mfraye12 3 месяца назад +2

      @@Birds4lifeAnya Be more vague

  • @ycaklyee3380
    @ycaklyee3380 2 года назад +794

    As a rodent and reptile owner this makes me so happy!! I see most stores shove ALL of them in a small box with no toys although these aren’t pets they have a purpose it’s great setup! Please allow some of your staff to give snuggles! Rats are super affectionate and form strong bonds with humans and other animals!

    • @JustHamsters
      @JustHamsters Год назад +1

      ah yes ending rodents makes you happy.

    • @mexicahotcheetoes.5107
      @mexicahotcheetoes.5107 Год назад +23

      I don't know if you want to bond with soon-to-be-eaten rats. (Rats r cute tho :) . )

    • @discordiacreates6669
      @discordiacreates6669 Год назад +34

      I'm sorry but while they probably would enjoy some gentle cuddling, you really do NOT want to do so with feeders of any species. The problem isn't their enjoyment, it's how hard it can make it to actually feed them to another pet, which is an issue if you own a predator that only accepts live food and you're raising your own food ^^'. Believe me, I keep insect feeders and I actually like bugs so I've delt with some guilt over feeding them. That's ofc why I specifically keep one colony of not food insects so I have an excuse to pamper some of them, we're not all perfect ^^'

    • @poopfart7618
      @poopfart7618 Год назад +23

      @@JustHamsters how else are they supposed to feed their snakes lmao

    • @burntbeansoup
      @burntbeansoup Год назад +7

      ​@poopfart Frozen rodents are better for the safety of the reptile.

  • @handlingit6379
    @handlingit6379 2 года назад +2288

    I’m glad she mentions that these are way too small for pet rats, they make great pets and NEED space and enrichment, more than snakes so if you want them I’d recommend them if you have the space

    • @Feezee223
      @Feezee223 2 года назад +89

      The fact that they need space, them being social and the fact that I have a cat is why I’m waiting until I don’t live with my parents to get rats because I really want them but I just wouldn’t be able to properly care for them right now.

    • @honeybiscuit1457
      @honeybiscuit1457 2 года назад +215

      People don't realize that keeping rodents for breeding is different from keeping rodents for pets. There's a reason rats and mice build nests for their young.. Because they feel more secure in a smaller space when they have babies. For a pet rat you wanted to breed once, you'd just give them a nesting box inside of their large enclosure.. But for breeding rats... Literally all they're there for is breeding. You design the enclosure based on suiting their ideal breeding conditions.

    • @handlingit6379
      @handlingit6379 2 года назад +22

      @@Feezee223 I have a cat too, I just make sure she doesn’t come into my room but when I move out I’d like a small room dedicated to rats because the can be noisy (eg it’s 4:30am currently and they are running around their cage lmao)

    • @charlenefaye
      @charlenefaye 2 года назад +30

      I have to say I was worried and shocked when I saw those raks. But I do understand their situation and I am happy they do their best.

    • @handlingit6379
      @handlingit6379 2 года назад +60

      @@honeybiscuit1457 it’s just that they’ll live they’re entire lives in these racks until
      Being sold, I understand having the space they need is not economical and I don’t really have a solution but I just don’t like the idea of adult rats living in bins they can hardly stand up in

  • @laurelh1975
    @laurelh1975 2 года назад +1781

    As someone who has had pet rats for a long time, they will always have a special place in my heart. When I got my first snake last year, I'll admit, when I got my first delivery of frozen feeders and had to thaw one out for my snake, I teared up a bit. (I teared up a lot.. it was maybe a little bit of a cry.) The rat had very similar colours to my favourite pet rat from years past, and was a weaned one. Still small, but very clearly a rat. I remember literally thinking, "Oh this is indeed a rat." It was a bit of a mental hurdle to overcome, but I would never deny my snakes their food or insist they try to eat non-meat options (as some people do with their cats & dogs, but that's another rant.) Emily & Ed, I really appreciate the care and attention you've put into this breeding room. I've seen other videos where breeders just fill their bins up as much as possible and have no enrichment, and it's heart breaking. While this video was hard to watch in its own way, it was also really reassuring to know that, even though you guys know they are for food, you still care that they have hides, that they have chew toys & snacks, and that you're clearly paying enough attention to them to figure out which ones are more friendly, better parents, etc. You are wonderful caretakers & breeders, even of the future food in your care.

    • @skrubknight884
      @skrubknight884 2 года назад +149

      the people that try to vegan-feed dogs and cats are a special kind of stupid

    • @Leo-ev6dy
      @Leo-ev6dy 2 года назад +8

      You wouldn't have to you can feed them all kind of 🍖 meat

    • @takumi2023
      @takumi2023 2 года назад +5

      Oh I have no such inhibitions towards insects but I'd get a lizard in that case.

    • @alana.dyer.author
      @alana.dyer.author 2 года назад +57

      I have cats and dogs and a hedgehog thats an omnivore....my pets get spoiled with ground chicken and beef (cooked of course)
      People who feed their carnivores veggies just are a special kind of animal abusers.

    • @skrubknight884
      @skrubknight884 2 года назад +46

      @Kathia Amaro they don't have enough braincells to realize not everything is omnivorous like us. not even going into nutrition, too much plant matter is hard on the digestive systems of carnivores, but they don't see that till the animals start becoming ill or suffer injury, and even then they might not associate it.
      hell, up until recently when we were able to engineer microbes to produce B12 in a vat, humans had to eat at least some meat or foods fortified with B12 from meat or we would eventually die.

  • @ryanw7706
    @ryanw7706 Год назад +417

    I think it was Temple Grandin that said "If we are going to use animals food, they deserve the best life and most comfortable death we can provide them". You guys are doing waaaay better than most would. I live near NERD in NH (sort of). I drive 30 minutes out of my way for feeders there knowing they have a better and healthier life with them instead of local stores which are known to neglect them. I want my snake happy and healthy. That means their food needs to have been well cared for as well. Again, you guys are doing amazing! Id love to visit if i was closer!

  • @sassycatlarkin
    @sassycatlarkin Год назад +438

    Please do an update! I love seeing the colorful little rats and mice. They are so cute. Your setup is a great way to humanly raise feeders. I love how you breed for more than just good mothers, but also for quality and color. Keep it up Emily and Ed!

    • @chuckthebrindlepittie6820
      @chuckthebrindlepittie6820 Год назад +1

      Quality and color looks adorable frozen and thawed.

    • @cloudyskyz2237
      @cloudyskyz2237 Год назад

      @@chuckthebrindlepittie6820 Jesus Christ what is your problem? You are commenting on every single comment in this comment section.
      I love having reptiles. They are so incredible to watch enjoying life.
      And no, Emily and Ed are not doing this just for money. Their snakes are actually sold fairly cheaply for the kinds of morphs they produce. Not to mention, they receive HUNDREDS of rescues every single month. I didn’t know caring about what happens to abandoned animals means you have no heart.
      And complaining about snakes eating food is bizarre. Do you think every single animal that eats meat is horrible and heartless?
      Are you one of those people who thinks humans taught wild animals how to eat meat?
      Edit: I worked at a pet store. The mice and rats all were kept in 5-10 gallon tanks. No enrichment. No hides. Broken water bottles. They were horribly bred (every single day I had to remove multiple dead rodents from the tanks, it was horrible). They weren’t held at all, so they were skittish and bit all the time. It was horrific.
      So to see Emily and Ed putting so much care and thought into taking care of these rodents is incredible.
      And you should watch till the later half of the video. They explain why they have chosen to do what they do. And they got WAY bigger racks so the young rats can have much more room to play.

    • @el5001
      @el5001 Год назад +6

      ​@chuckthebrindlepittie6820 the snakes gotta eat something

    • @chuckthebrindlepittie6820
      @chuckthebrindlepittie6820 Год назад +1

      @@el5001 What value is there in being a "cute" rodent, when they are all snuffed for same purpose? Please explain why "cute" rodents tastes better, are more nutritious, than an average-looking, or even an "uncute" rodent. Will be interested in your explanation.

    • @cloudyskyz2237
      @cloudyskyz2237 Год назад +8

      @@chuckthebrindlepittie6820 I see you blatantly ignored my comment. I guess it doesn’t fit your narrative about how awful snakes and Ed and Emily are. What a shame.
      And to give an explanation to your query: in no way shape or form is it about pretty rats/mice being tastier. It is simply about enjoying a hobby. Sure, in the long run the rodents will be culled to feed other animals, but why not enjoy them while you have them? As someone who owns mice, I can personally say it is much more satisfying to have mice who have cool patterns or coat colors. It gets rather boring when they’re all solidly black, grey or white. Ik shocking I can own both pet mice and snakes and still feed my snakes rodents.

  • @linneasjolander9307
    @linneasjolander9307 2 года назад +2080

    As a pet rat breeder I’m honestly suprised at how well You are caring for them, they all have a decent amount of space and plenty of enrichment, love seeing feeder breeders that actually care about the animals physical and mental health while they are alive. Would love to see more videos on how You breed them all too

    • @voydheart9144
      @voydheart9144 2 года назад +66

      Same, my experience with feeders has been sad,(Mostly bought some from the bins to give them better life) but these lil guys all have a good setup

    • @TheBitchspotReport
      @TheBitchspotReport 2 года назад +60

      Yup. As a former pet and show animal breeder, those racks are top of the line. So long as they have an employee go in every now and then and play with the animals, they'll wind up very tame.

    • @kt141211311
      @kt141211311 2 года назад +18

      I’m happy to learn that those bins provide a decent amount of space, I was worried

    • @linneasjolander9307
      @linneasjolander9307 2 года назад +56

      @@kt141211311 they aren’t amazing, espessuly for pets but when compared to what’s ”normal” for feeder breeders they are great, I’ve seen people put 5-8 rats in those bins so 2-3 is great and they are usually bare with nothing but substrate and food but these have hides and enrichment

    • @linneasjolander9307
      @linneasjolander9307 2 года назад +19

      @@TheBitchspotReport and check the water is working and not filming the bins, I’ve seen and heard alot of horror storys about that style water system but if cheched at least once a day it shouldn’t be an issue

  • @cindyshaw7364
    @cindyshaw7364 2 года назад +1816

    Sure most of them are used to feed snakes but this is one of the most humane set ups I've ever seen, you guys definitely take great care of your rodents and give them the best life possible

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

    • @kaelynluvsya
      @kaelynluvsya 2 года назад +44

      This helped my perspective, thank you!
      I’ve followed them for awhile and always knew they take fabulous care of their animals, but gosh I still found it hard to know these lil guys are mostly food.

    • @Lulu-xl5cm
      @Lulu-xl5cm 2 года назад +34

      If this is humane....I'm scared to see any other way because THIS is TERRIBLE! The rats are miserable.

    • @SandstormL
      @SandstormL 2 года назад +21

      How is this humane when those set ups can easyily give respitory infections? Oof.

    • @wrendrawsstuff6403
      @wrendrawsstuff6403 2 года назад +74

      @@SandstormL As an owner of rats and mice, these shavings may not be the safest for them, but they are super susceptible to lung issues either way. These rats and mice aren’t going to live long enough to develop those issues either way, I’d say it’s pretty humane

  • @jadedkitty728
    @jadedkitty728 Год назад +198

    this video actually got me a new perspective on how tall the racks are, I always assumed Emily was average height, now every snake discovery video with a rack in it will NEVER BE THE SAME

    • @prezhenz6969
      @prezhenz6969 9 месяцев назад +4

      Right!? 5’11 is so tall

  • @kassandrayoung3405
    @kassandrayoung3405 11 месяцев назад +73

    Emily, Ed, this really shows that you guy's aren't just reptile lovers or in this for money. the level of care you show to even feeder rats is incredible! so many keepers should act the ways you two do. Such a blessing to herp keepers (and honestly just pet lovers) everywhere!

  • @yukievans381
    @yukievans381 2 года назад +612

    Snake discovery: *breeds rodents solely for consumption*
    Also snake discovery: "Look at all da little babiiiieeees I love you guys. hope you're comfortable. do you guys need another Ipad?"

    • @ReganFree93
      @ReganFree93 2 года назад +34

      She said she was working to breed cool colors so I wonder if they plan to sell as pets too?

    • @personoffline6949
      @personoffline6949 2 года назад +28

      @@ReganFree93 Yeah they'll have a "secret bin" under the counter for selling rats to people. I'm not sure if it's as pets but yes

    • @ratsandus450
      @ratsandus450 2 года назад +4

      Lol

    • @KnightslayerK8
      @KnightslayerK8 2 года назад +11

      Its the promised neverland all over again

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

  • @Spectorwing
    @Spectorwing 2 года назад +900

    It was so easy to forget during this video that these rats are being raised with the purpose to breed food for snakes. I think it displays that while yes you acknowledge these rodents are food, you still treat them with decency.

    • @fourearwolf3315
      @fourearwolf3315 2 года назад +48

      Yeah, I keep forgetting that too which made me start to feel bad for them since they’re so cute. I’m happy that she’s taking good care of them though.

    • @Emmuzka
      @Emmuzka 2 года назад +46

      There is the same issue with feeder fish. Just because they are bred for food, it doesn't mean that they wouldn't deserve a healthy, decent life.

    • @AletheaWilliams-x-
      @AletheaWilliams-x- 2 года назад +14

      Yeah it is sad to know what is going to happen, but they keep there close ones because they can't just take alife from the favourite 😕

    • @meercaat9936
      @meercaat9936 2 года назад +9

      I think it's just bc they are colorful and sweet...I mean when they are all the same(I mean the albino mice and that) than you don't get attached...it is sad...but it's more humane than what we do to eat chickens...and stuff...at least these guys die by falling a sleep

    • @FelineBlue
      @FelineBlue 2 года назад +16

      @@meercaat9936 yeah for sure, any animals produced for human consumption would be in far worse conditions than this and killed in brutal factory methods. i think it just goes to show that Emily and Ed have so much care and compassion even for animals they are being for feeding other animals

  • @ratattack246
    @ratattack246 2 года назад +118

    With how calm they all were being handled, you can tell they are taken very good care of. Your setup looks so good!

    • @ratattack246
      @ratattack246 2 года назад +9

      I really love snakes, and in the future when I have the space, I want to have a large collection. My plan was always to breed my own feeders, and this seems like it works super well

  • @pegzie.creation
    @pegzie.creation Год назад +130

    It is a controversial topic but it does have to be talked about. I've owned rats as pets and how I got started was because my snake rejected a rat. From then on we ended up feeding frozen mice to him.
    I truly appreciate you covering this topic. I also am extremely impressed and wow'd by how you treat your rodents; regardless if they are food or pet. A lot of pet stores don't even do that for their pet rats!! I wish I lived closer to you guys!!

  • @ItsMattF
    @ItsMattF 2 года назад +3667

    I really appreciate people who see even their "feeder" animals as important and deserving of good quality of life. It's one of the things I'm most squeamish about in terms of snake ownership (which is why I only keep frugivore/insecivore lizards at the moment). Hopefully I'll get over my qualms in the future. Thank you for caring about ALL your animals. 💕

    • @heysaucemikehere1804
      @heysaucemikehere1804 2 года назад +125

      I’m glad that you recognize your comfort level when it comes to feeding snakes!! Super important. I’ve heard of a lot of snake owners who own snakes that should be eating a staple of rodents, but don’t because they aren’t comfortable with it. Props to you for putting an animals health before your wanting a snake!

    • @ItsMattF
      @ItsMattF 2 года назад +91

      I’m all about giving my animals the best lives they could have. So if I can’t give it to them, I can’t own them. It makes me really sad (and a little mad to be honest) when people just buy pets without research. I do a minimum of 6 months of learning before making the decision that I can care for the new animal. We are their whole world and they deserve the best. I’m always thrilled with how well Ed and Emily care for their animals.

    • @Matt-rm9xh
      @Matt-rm9xh 2 года назад +37

      @@ItsMattF completely agree with that (why I'll never get a insect eating reptile or anything cuz I have a fear of bugs lol) and so many people should really follow how you do 6 months of research before hand

    • @kenziee5386
      @kenziee5386 2 года назад +21

      i always make sure they have a comfy home but i can’t get to attached because then i will just keep the mouse 😭

    • @anonymixx8106
      @anonymixx8106 2 года назад +36

      I agree, I feel the same about humans eating animals. If you're gonna ask them to sacrifice their lives to become food, at least give them a healthy loving life. Otherwise you're just feeding suffering

  • @amorachinchilla
    @amorachinchilla 2 года назад +1574

    i might genuinely cry right now, as a rodent breeder it's absolutely tragic how most reptile keepers treat their feeder animals. the entire video i was thinking "okay, i know you guys are good with reptile enrichment, but..." "okay, those are way better sized than most feeder setups, but..."
    and then you guys really just keep giving and giving and actually put things in there for them. it may not be perfect for a pet, but it's far better than anything i've ever seen from feeder breeders, and i certainly wouldn't be sad to see this. thank you guys.

    • @Kvs-vf9nt
      @Kvs-vf9nt 2 года назад +11

      They are a pest they may happy for the maximum a month they live to get all this. A lobster lives much longer still many restaurants treat them much worse than and rodent breeders there rodents. I have to seek every time that they had a good life and ask looking behind the scenes before I would eat a lobster. So come on. If would feet you to my crocodiles I would give you good food and everything you need to. But I would not build you a mansion....
      (Just an example I have NO crocodiles!)

    • @C00keis901
      @C00keis901 2 года назад +58

      Ty for not being a hater because they feed rodents to snakes you are a kind person

    • @amorachinchilla
      @amorachinchilla 2 года назад +95

      @@C00keis901 Of course not! It's like getting mad that cats need to eat meat. I love mice and rats, and they're wonderful pets, but that doesn't mean that they aren't also a food source for other animals. As long as they're being treated with respect while they're alive, I'm happy.

    • @Firstfalconfree
      @Firstfalconfree 2 года назад +41

      From someone who used to breed mice for AFRMA shows, I second aaaalll this. This video makes me want rodents again. 🥰

    • @youn_A
      @youn_A 2 года назад +24

      @@amorachinchilla Thank you, there’s this dude on yt calling cats and other animals “BEASTS” for eating prey.

  • @ObjectoMenace
    @ObjectoMenace Год назад +85

    I think it's really cool that they're being bred to be good moms. I also love the soft furrs and just how their mini "society" functions. I really want a snake but the matter of feeding is the only thing keeping me away, but it's really nice to see these rodents getting the best possible quality of life before being used for food. From what I know from watching this channel is that they mainly feed their reptiles frozen thawed. The majority of these animals will be killed humanely and painlessly with CO2 (please correct me if I'm wrong), never experiencing the fear and pain of being killed and swallowed by a snake

    • @kaitlynredfield
      @kaitlynredfield Год назад +7

      You can also use repta links if you don’t want to feed rats or mice

    • @slightlydistressedslug6627
      @slightlydistressedslug6627 Год назад +2

      🥰

    • @wolfrevenant1489
      @wolfrevenant1489 9 месяцев назад +14

      They will be killed with CO2 most likely - sadly it’s not painless, that gas activates the bodies panic response/urge to breathe. It’s basically the same feeling as drowning or being suffocated, it’s not a nice way to die at all. Wish there were more humane options.

    • @roundhouse2616
      @roundhouse2616 6 месяцев назад +16

      @@wolfrevenant1489 There are! Nitrogen does not trigger the suffocation response. It's only CO2 that does this, so there are other gasses that can be used for euthanasia. You can also use nitrogen mixed with a normal level of CO2 to make the nitrogen last longer.

  • @justsomeonewithtoomuchfreetime
    @justsomeonewithtoomuchfreetime Год назад +101

    As a rodent and snake lover, I love how you're humane with the rodents, and explain why they are necessary for snakes.

  • @Amanda-xx5uf
    @Amanda-xx5uf 2 года назад +538

    I have rats and yes, I love them a lot and there are those existential crisis moments where you think about them as food... But as Emily said, circle of life. I know way too many breeders who don’t even have pet rat set ups this nice. It’s a touchy subject, but I think they tackled it well and with transparency.

    • @fenfeirthehighwayman8049
      @fenfeirthehighwayman8049 2 года назад +1

      Yea I agree Feeding is the hardest part for me and my girls a rescue and she will only eat live but growing up I have a pet nice I really just love some sort of way to at least be able to get food for my snake that lived a good life I’d pay extra not gonna lie

    • @charlygestern6556
      @charlygestern6556 2 года назад

      I don’t undestand why you would keep pets that eat other pets if you don’t like killing them. It’s like „oooh pigs are so cute!“ and still eating them.
      It’s not the circle of live, if it’s not outside in nature. You don’t have to kill them.

    • @Amanda-xx5uf
      @Amanda-xx5uf 2 года назад +2

      @@charlygestern6556 I don’t eat my pets. I don’t eat any meat, actually. But it’s still the circle of life when it’s animals and they don’t have a choice in their dietary restrictions.

  • @lowknees1959
    @lowknees1959 2 года назад +2293

    I'm a rat owner, and I knew watching this my feelings might be a little hurt, but Emily and Ed, you are doing a FANTASTIC job! You're doing everything you can to responsibly breed, you clearly know your stuff, and want to give these animals a decent, good quality of life while they are still on this earth. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so responsible and humane.

    • @lilydrawsart5756
      @lilydrawsart5756 2 года назад +161

      This! All my rats have been feeder bin babies as there aren't any breeders near me. I came go snake discovery a bit ago and got 2 of my dream rats. They were also genuinely very nice and needed no work with temperament.
      They are getting along very well with my 3 other girls. Too.
      Very proud of them for their setup!

    • @voydheart9144
      @voydheart9144 2 года назад +53

      @@lilydrawsart5756 Same, I rescued all mine from feeder bins at petstores(poor conditions) now you make me wanna make the trip to Snake Discovery for some new bogglers

    • @ninovardidze7951
      @ninovardidze7951 2 года назад +9

      What is that rat on Emily's right doing on 20:00

    • @ZombxAutoPilot
      @ZombxAutoPilot 2 года назад +29

      @@ninovardidze7951 if you're referring to the white and black one it looks like its cleaning itself

    • @livvygrossmann6004
      @livvygrossmann6004 2 года назад +11

      As a mouse owner, I agree 100%!!

  • @lindsayschmidt2177
    @lindsayschmidt2177 2 года назад +72

    As a rodent lover as well as a snake lover, I’m so glad you give your mice and rats (as well as the African soft-furs, that’s a new species I didn't know about!) the best lives you can before they go on to become feeders. It may seem like a small gesture, but they all seem like very happy, healthy animals.

  • @natalieheelein7727
    @natalieheelein7727 Год назад +35

    One of the best parts about Emily and Ed is they always do things very ethically and will do right for any animal in their care. They educate themselves and don’t cut corners when animal care is concerned. No matter how one feels about breeding rats as food, they still do things the best way for the animal

  • @dark1alucard
    @dark1alucard 2 года назад +587

    mandy is just padding her resume at this point. she can do all the jobs.

    • @phangirlable
      @phangirlable 2 года назад +29

      I think at this point we have to change the term Jack of all Trades to Mandy of all Trades. XD

    • @tomk2010
      @tomk2010 2 года назад +9

      @@phangirlable or simply Mandy=Jack of all trades ie, you're a regular Mandy aren't you?

  • @zolfirthedragon
    @zolfirthedragon 2 года назад +354

    Your rodents are being kept as snake food, and still you treat them better than a LOT of pet owners treat theirs.

  • @dokkisse9075
    @dokkisse9075 Год назад +29

    I own both rodents and snakes, and I appreciate the work you put into the housing for the rodents, even if they're meant to be food.

  • @jkkgron2
    @jkkgron2 Год назад +10

    Rat owner here. I just wanted to say thank you for treating your feeders so well, rats are very intelligent and it’s really refreshing to see a good breeding set up for them. I don’t have any problems with using rats and mice as feeders. Snakes need to eat too. But it’s just really great to see how well taken care of they are. I’m not saying this setup is ideal for pet rats, but it’s really great compared to most feeder set ups.

  • @suprisedfrog2784
    @suprisedfrog2784 2 года назад +365

    "Hey you peed on me" is now taking the cake for the best rodent name I've ever heard.

    • @heyits_grey2533
      @heyits_grey2533 2 года назад +1

      Agreed

    • @timberwolf1575
      @timberwolf1575 2 года назад +3

      How about "Stop biting me!"

    • @wolfofwisdom360
      @wolfofwisdom360 Год назад

      Or… Stop tickling my armpit… wait no go back to tickling my armpit, stop biting my t1t!

  • @just.groovy
    @just.groovy 2 года назад +504

    I remember when Ed never wanted to be heard or seen on camera. I’m so glad he’s come out of his shell so much.

    • @themurrrr
      @themurrrr 2 года назад +20

      Same, he’s such a sweetheart

    • @romywhite290
      @romywhite290 2 года назад +15

      He's fun!

    • @aleciab83
      @aleciab83 2 года назад +8

      I was thinking the same thing. I like when we hear Ed educate us or explain things. I like Ed showing his brain power!

    • @chantelmurphy2397
      @chantelmurphy2397 2 года назад +1

      I was thinking the exact same thing!! Great minds think alike 😄😄

    • @boglenight1551
      @boglenight1551 2 года назад +2

      He’s such a cutie!! If he’s bi and they break up, truly the worst thing I can imagine as they’re so perfect together, then I’m totally gonna fly to America and try my chances.

  • @birchbarks550
    @birchbarks550 6 месяцев назад +4

    The fact that all of these are clearly social, happy and arent showing signs of fear or aggression really shows how well you treat them and how good this setup is, owning animals that eat meat always comes with the needed evil of something dying to keep the animal fed and alive, this is probably THE best way to do it!

  • @mandylydena24
    @mandylydena24 2 месяца назад +2

    I know this is old, but I’m very happy to see these guys being cared for properly. I have a snake, and also recently added feeder mice to the family as pets. They were not socialized and will bite me (not remotely aggressive, just over enthusiastic), but that’s not their fault and I want to give them the best life possible. ☺️

  • @obsydian_jay
    @obsydian_jay 2 года назад +573

    I love how much effort they put into giving every animal a good life, even the animals that are food. Most facilities wouldn't care about their rodents, but they got all their rodents toys and hides. They all seem happy and healthy, they can even handle them with no stress signs from the animal! I love this

    • @jazmynallard1887
      @jazmynallard1887 2 года назад

      Love your profile pic .I love twenty one pilots

    • @bruuuuuhhh
      @bruuuuuhhh 2 года назад

      I love it to. i used to have a desert rat and Am gald that thay care about there animals

    • @GoldintoBlack02
      @GoldintoBlack02 2 года назад +2

      The rats actually seem to be very very skittish, way worse than mine, but as long as they aren’t aggressive nbd. The mice are amazing temperamented, I hope I can find handleable mice when I get back into them.

    • @mollyqr.
      @mollyqr. 2 года назад +1

      Oh my god- we have the same name, and we both like 21 pilots. I also love snake discovery omg-

    • @obsydian_jay
      @obsydian_jay 2 года назад

      @@mollyqr. That's so funny!!

  • @billybitemark2678
    @billybitemark2678 2 года назад +521

    Ya know those days without an incident boards? You should have one of those but for ‘how many days since last escape’ 😂

  • @-jomanad-2626
    @-jomanad-2626 Год назад +19

    The thing I love the most about snake discovery is the fact you can tell they care for all of thare animals, even the feeders, its amazing to see a zoo that really loves the animals thare♡

  • @fizzlepoplemonlime5600
    @fizzlepoplemonlime5600 Год назад +16

    Loving rodents as much as reptiles and an ex-mouse-owner, it’s wonderful to see how wonderfully you treat your feeders and how kind you are to them. All animals deserve the best life no matter how or why their life is going to end or be for, and y’all understand that and give all life respect

  • @kearstinnorton4524
    @kearstinnorton4524 2 года назад +412

    I know this is primarily a reptile channel but I would love to see more about the breeding and updates on litters and the genetics and things like that :) it’s obvious the care and love that’s put into these animals just as much as the reptiles and it’s really refreshing to see :)

  • @_adelaide_rose_
    @_adelaide_rose_ 2 года назад +1486

    My cousins are the same way with their chickens. My aunt did not like the way meat chickens were treated so she raises her own. She gives them a great living space and respects them. So glad these guys are treated the same! :) It is a little sad that they are gonna die. :'( Gotta feed those snakes tho!

    • @CoRLex-jh5vx
      @CoRLex-jh5vx 2 года назад +92

      They would be dying and getting eaten in the wild anyway, so give them the happiest, most uninterrupted life you can beforehand

    • @_adelaide_rose_
      @_adelaide_rose_ 2 года назад +25

      @@CoRLex-jh5vx Exactly! :)

    • @keketski5430
      @keketski5430 2 года назад +57

      I believe the better the life of the prey the better it feeds the predator

    • @C.Woodford
      @C.Woodford 2 года назад +34

      @@keketski5430 yep! You are going to get a better quality higher nutrition feeder from these rodents then you would ever get from other feeder breeders. This is because you are putting in high quality food and nutrition which gets you a higher quality feeder out.

    • @keketski5430
      @keketski5430 2 года назад +5

      @@C.Woodford ohhh so it does do something

  • @tadooable
    @tadooable Год назад +53

    please do another rodent breeding vid, thank you emily and ed

  • @evelynstone7995
    @evelynstone7995 Год назад +9

    I'm from Missouri and I am giving serious consideration to the idea of driving up to Snake Discovery just to buy some pet rats, they are beautiful and many of them seem to be comfortable with handling!

  • @Algorithmicgeneratedwordsalad
    @Algorithmicgeneratedwordsalad 2 года назад +302

    You can tell that Emily was very sad when she was discussing the fact that they're smart but they make a good diet for snakes

    • @evaellis3933
      @evaellis3933 2 года назад +3

      i know i think it's so sad

  • @smallpaws196
    @smallpaws196 2 года назад +2579

    As a rat owner, as much as I love them, I'm pretty okay with feeder rats, as long as it's ethical and the rats are happy, and it is clear that they are here. You have everything so humane with proper enrichment for them. It's very clear that even though all these rats will be is food, they are still cared for. Thank you for being so good with them.
    Side note: comments are best read with popcorn

    • @kam-lw4ez
      @kam-lw4ez 2 года назад +35

      If you think this is okay I don't want to see the poor conditions you're keeping your own rats in

    • @smallpaws196
      @smallpaws196 2 года назад +217

      @@kam-lw4ez The only thing wrong with this setup is the space, and they clearly explain why they can't give them enough space. They do everything they can to help with this issue, like rotating the males around so that there are only two or three rats in there at a time.

    • @avelynewalk9159
      @avelynewalk9159 2 года назад +21

      @@smallpaws196 their "Reason" is that it wouldn't make them enough money :/ so you also support industrial farming of pigs and cows kept in tight spaces?

    • @smallpaws196
      @smallpaws196 2 года назад +165

      @@avelynewalk9159 Their reason is that they wouldn't be able to fit enough in there. They point that out in the video, as I already mentioned. This is the very very best that they, or anyone under the circumstances, can do.

    • @avelynewalk9159
      @avelynewalk9159 2 года назад +15

      @@smallpaws196 yes because they want to make more money. You're right their reason is they wouldn't be able to fit enough in. And why are they trying to fit as many in as they are? Because it makes them more money lol

  • @Merly3333
    @Merly3333 Год назад +9

    As someone who used to breed Fancy rats for pets, this set up is wonderful for animals that are breeders. I love that you love them too. I also love that there is one someone loves and has become a lifelong working pet.

  • @Iamalesbianlmao
    @Iamalesbianlmao 2 года назад +17

    This setup is so much more ethical than the other setups I’ve seen.

  • @hweori
    @hweori 2 года назад +641

    i’m not going to lie and say i love this part of snake keeping, but i also realise that snakes and other reptiles need food. this breeding setup at least seems relatively enriching and i know you give the rodents as good of a life as possible

    • @WHALEx3
      @WHALEx3 2 года назад +9

      Don’t be confused, yes this is necessary, but the best life as possible for a rodent is to continue living.

    • @hweori
      @hweori 2 года назад +78

      @@WHALEx3 yes i fully agree, but for feeder rodents this is one of the better set ups i’ve seen

    • @parkers9095
      @parkers9095 2 года назад +16

      @@WHALEx3 they said in a past video they keep some rodents and find owners for them!

    • @poagy
      @poagy 2 года назад +33

      as someone who keeps rodents and loves snakes as well, i am too glad they at least give enrichment to the rodents.

    • @am5173
      @am5173 2 года назад +27

      I’m glad they’re doing this instead of supporting a business that could neglect them, although this is the reason I don’t own snakes :(

  • @lyricdemers8203
    @lyricdemers8203 2 года назад +218

    I am a rat lover and I absolutely ADORE your setup. People really shouldn't be comparing it to a pet setup, but to other rat-breeding-for-feeding set ups. If they do that it's very easy to see how much you guys care.

    • @mpk6664
      @mpk6664 2 года назад +37

      @Crystal hare Because these aren't "pets". Most of them are going to be feeders. Compared to other breeders this setup is luxurious.

    • @boglenight1551
      @boglenight1551 2 года назад +12

      @Crystal hare
      Because if we remove the mid points you’ll only have extremes at both ends, including the bad end. People keep snakes, snakes need to eat, therefore someone needs to provide what snakes eat.

    • @StoutShako
      @StoutShako 2 года назад +16

      @Crystal hare If you wanted pet-like setups for the rats, they might be able to keep 25 or so in that room. There's no way you could feed an entire zoo like that. People need to be realistic.
      They gave them enrichment, hides, chew toys, companionship, and keeps everything cleaner than I keep my apartment. They're doing a great job.

    • @boglenight1551
      @boglenight1551 2 года назад +1

      @@samf8894
      I did not say that. However if you want rat feeders to stop, it doesn’t start at the rats, it starts with the snakes.
      Whether or not you see what Snake Discovery does as mistreatment is irrelevant, it’s the best marble in that bag.

  • @virginiamae4777
    @virginiamae4777 Год назад +7

    I'm a rodent/reptile owner and this is AMAZING this is the best rodent breeding set up I've ever seen 🥺 and you're so sweet to them too!!

  • @ferretchick06
    @ferretchick06 11 месяцев назад +6

    There's a store near me that also stocks their feeders in happy, healthy conditions. They also make wonderful pets (a friend has three) and they're very friendly. They let people wash their hands and interact with them as a form of enrichment and socialization. Actually they're so well cared for I was surprised when the owner said it was their feeder stock. Since my partner won't let me adopt a 'rodent' it's a great way to give a sweet rat some awesome cuddles and play.
    Thanks for showing it can be done right ❤

  • @heatherlynnrigaud7385
    @heatherlynnrigaud7385 2 года назад +883

    I've got to share a funny story. We have a one yr old Ball Python who's a bit of a fussy eater. (Shocking, I know) We've taken to showing her this video while we're thawing her rats to give her some inspiration. It works so well; She gets so excited and gobbles the rat down right away. We call this video her 'cooking show.' Thank you so much, SD, for helping us and her.

    • @slightlydistressedslug6627
      @slightlydistressedslug6627 2 года назад +6

      ?

    • @C.Woodford
      @C.Woodford 2 года назад +64

      @@slightlydistressedslug6627 the snake gets exited about the lice rats is what i think thwy are saying, which means they eat their frozen thawed one no problem

    • @catbatrat1760
      @catbatrat1760 2 года назад +51

      Animals are such freaking weirdos, and I for one wouldn't have it any other way. :)

    • @valeriepark9444
      @valeriepark9444 2 года назад +31

      That is FREAKING ADORABLE

    • @krazykayscomputerrepairs1989
      @krazykayscomputerrepairs1989 2 года назад +22

      That's hilarious and sooo adorable!

  • @dawolfe4558
    @dawolfe4558 2 года назад +203

    As someone who has kept many rats as pets, I can say with-ought a shadow of doubt these rats and mice look incredibly healthy! clear eyes and nose, active, friendly and well socialized, with such healthy coats too! While it is sad they are mostly food, it is wonderful that they are given such a comfy life, with quality food and loving accommodations. I love my rats and mice, but my snake needs to eat too!

    • @snpdrg0n
      @snpdrg0n 2 года назад +3

      I know someone who had a snake (corn, I believe) and yet she refused to feed it because the thawed food was 'gross'. I mean, if you can't handle dead animals, don't get a snake, you know? She didn't have it very long; she ended up getting two bearded dragons and housing them together, but I don't think she had them very long either.

    • @skrubknight884
      @skrubknight884 2 года назад +5

      @@snpdrg0n beardies need to eat meat as well to have a healthy diet, so yeah, not a good pet owner there. if she was so grossed out by feeding them meat she should have just gotten a herbivorous lizard like an uromastyx or something, or just a cat

    • @mattuwu9978
      @mattuwu9978 2 года назад +8

      When I saw the coats I was shocked with how shiny they were. None of their noses or ears looked even mildly irritated (which I see a lot in pet stores). It’s more amazing that they’re paying enough attention to recognize which mice/rats are better parents to help with a healthier breeding lineage.

  • @zakmac95
    @zakmac95 3 месяца назад +3

    Rate that you guys could have easily maximized profit by ramming the drawers full but chose enrichment over profit. Legends.

  • @Dreegon1486
    @Dreegon1486 Год назад +15

    Even though these animals are just breeders and not in the best conditions, you still treat them the best they can get in these homes, thanks

  • @emilymcdonald7513
    @emilymcdonald7513 2 года назад +685

    I think it's good to learn where food comes from. People will complain that you raise rodents for food when they are very likely eating meat from cows/chicken/pigs that may have not had a comfy life

    • @olingecko
      @olingecko 2 года назад +47

      Yeah, I realized this when I put rats in my freezer. It's not so weird when I realize that there are other meats in there too.

    • @lemonshark4961
      @lemonshark4961 2 года назад +61

      And getting feeders from somewhere else is still doing the same thing. I think it makes people uncomfortable when they have to see the process up close

    • @SquishyRogue
      @SquishyRogue 2 года назад +45

      @@lemonshark4961 they are the exact people who should see the process then. Eating and feeding meat is good, but be aware of where it is from and how it got from the world to your plate/your animals stomach. Offer the food you eat and feed the respect it deserves by knowing how it came to be there.

    • @lemonshark4961
      @lemonshark4961 2 года назад +31

      @@SquishyRogue yes! I think a lot more people would advocate for animal wellness if they saw the process and theyd have to face the reality of death. It's very uncomfortable but we'd be better off as a society if we stopped hiding death from ourselves. Everything has to die eventually so that others might live

    • @dragonbornluna5274
      @dragonbornluna5274 2 года назад +10

      These are the vegans I can get behind! Unless you guys arn't vegan then that's okay too. Cause it really hurts me that animals live such horrible lives.......so sad....

  • @TheBethaiable
    @TheBethaiable 2 года назад +1809

    While yes, the space is too small, you found a happy medium with not over stuffing and giving them basic things they actually need, like toys and chews and love. It's realyl nice to see honestly, i wish more people would do this, i'd feel better about wanting a snake if i knew that the rodents i fed them at least had a bit of respect and love put into them.

    • @Chm388
      @Chm388 2 года назад +20

      You could always get a egg eating snake, you just need a steady supply of small enough eggs

    • @godzillark
      @godzillark 2 года назад +50

      @@Chm388 yes but then they would need allllot of eggs plus egg yolks have high cholesterol

    • @georgetteve5019
      @georgetteve5019 2 года назад +54

      More people ARE that way. But we don’t celebrate them. We just call out the ones we think are inhumane. We should start calling the “good ones” out too for their good job. I love rats they’re amazing. But I need to feed my amazing reptiles too. I love my rats cook food for them. Share time with them. When it’s time to go on from this earth I thank them. I also put them to sleep gently , no pain is involved. There are better ways. Just takes respect.

    • @georgetteve5019
      @georgetteve5019 2 года назад +21

      @@Chm388 uh……. Egg eating snakes are not the only creatures on this earth. There is a circle of life.

    • @Chm388
      @Chm388 2 года назад +25

      @@georgetteve5019 I know I was just saying if they were uncomfortable with feeding mice or rats they could get a snake that has a different diet

  • @Ashiicatt
    @Ashiicatt Год назад +7

    You’re really doing the best that you can with the demand and the need for rodents in the reptile world. You’re making sure the parents are good and that the rodents are happy with enrichment and the best possible home that you can give them. You’re not overstuffing bins but still allowing them to be in a community. Thank you for being as ethical as possible because it is a necessary evil

  • @dannestoddard9268
    @dannestoddard9268 5 месяцев назад +2

    As a rat owner, this made me so happy to see. Even if they are breeders and feeders, they're happy, healthy and well cared for.

  • @beeb0unce
    @beeb0unce 2 года назад +376

    It’s nice to see that these guys are sold as pets too.
    They’re sooo pretty and it’s amazing you’re providing a place for people to possibly get well bred, healthy rats in y’all’s area!!

    • @Tallthinks
      @Tallthinks 2 года назад +1

      Im a little sad to see this video.. because my hamster died overnight recently... it's still a good video tho.

    • @C.Woodford
      @C.Woodford 2 года назад +8

      @@Tallthinks sorry for your loss. Ive owned 3 hamsters in the past and i have one currently and each one passing is so hard so I can imagine how your feeling.

    • @Tallthinks
      @Tallthinks 2 года назад +2

      @@C.Woodford im also sorry for your losses.. i feel so bad because in his last moments i was asleep.. i can imagine he is watching over me in heaven. With all of my other pets..

    • @C.Woodford
      @C.Woodford 2 года назад +4

      @@Tallthinks trust me it's so much better on you when they pass when your asleep, because he was probably getting ready to go to sleep aswell so he would have passed peacefully. A few of mine have gone whist I'm awake and with them in not so peaceful ways and it makes it so so so much harder on you.

    • @Tallthinks
      @Tallthinks 2 года назад

      @@C.Woodford thats true..

  • @Schainukan
    @Schainukan 2 года назад +158

    I honestly have to say, Snake Discovery has the BEST, hands-down, care for their feeder rats&mice I have EVER seen! I am so surprised but glad that you even give them hides, toys, and chew objects. It's so nice to see that you guys treat them humanely and with respect like actual pets!

    • @binderyaa
      @binderyaa 2 года назад +1

      ikrrr

    • @samf8894
      @samf8894 2 года назад +4

      That is a very sad indictment of the appalling conditions feeder animals usually have to endure. Emily & Ed accept that the conditions they're providing still aren't adequate for rats, but are doing it anyway.

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

  • @Raven06025
    @Raven06025 11 месяцев назад +4

    Kudos on the effort you put into caring for these rodents. I’ve had pet rats and rat breeding projects for many years, and love how you’re able to strike a balance here. You have some beautiful ones growing and and they look healthy and well adjusted and not flighty and petrified of people… which frankly, makes it easier on everyone as a feeder animal too.

  • @sammynish3797
    @sammynish3797 2 года назад +7

    i love that even though they're feeders, you still put thought into the genetics. even if its not for longevity or health, its for good parenting which i think is a good thing to breed for. and pretty colors.

  • @AceNinjaViking
    @AceNinjaViking 2 года назад +102

    As an owner of pet rats, it made me very happy to hear your disclaimer on rat cage size and to actually tell people what great pets they make. Not enough people even know that they make such good pets, and I've seen plenty of reptile people treat them just as food and not put any effort into giving the feeders as good a life as possible, so thank you for your kindness towards ALL of your animals.

    • @taranorris1181
      @taranorris1181 2 года назад +2

      I agree! Before I got into snakes I wanted rats so bad! The only reason i didnt get them was because of their life span. I'm too soft to have something that only lives a few years and snakes live forever😅 but man are they awesome misunderstood little guys for sure! Those babies were killing me😭😭😭

  • @TiredEyes
    @TiredEyes 2 года назад +598

    I loved seeing that african softfur mom laying atop the biggest pile of babies and seeing how the mice were so happy with their confetti paper

  • @buggibii
    @buggibii 9 месяцев назад +4

    I'd LOVE an update to this video, just to see how you feel about the setup now after two years!! How much has changed? What have you been doing differently from then to now? What are your future plans for your current setup? What upgrades have you gotten/plan to get? I'm really interested!! ❤

  • @sadierodes9151
    @sadierodes9151 Год назад +2

    i love that y’all addressed how you should care for pet rats and how y’all put effort into the cages and the entertainment

  • @MagicMusicSbGl
    @MagicMusicSbGl 2 года назад +1574

    when their breeding set up is better than pet smart's display cages: ...
    edit: YALL IVE NEVER HAD A YT COMMENT GET THIS MANY LIKES WHAAAATTT

    • @catherinestott7538
      @catherinestott7538 2 года назад +14

      yes yes yes

    • @Dlutheran
      @Dlutheran 2 года назад +5

      😊

    • @gal7710
      @gal7710 2 года назад +30

      You dare compare them to PETSMART?!

    • @kateg9437
      @kateg9437 2 года назад +25

      The difference is that the animals will only live in the petsmart cages for a few weeks, while these adults will spend their whole lives like this

    • @ithewho6603
      @ithewho6603 2 года назад

      @@kateg9437 Right. My heart just dropped and now I don't know if I want to get a snake at all.

  • @shiggydiggyjones9953
    @shiggydiggyjones9953 2 года назад +285

    As of the 23rd of july, my ball python has finally decided to eat after 9 whole months. Dude just wasnt feeling like eating, lost close to no weight at all, and he even shed like 4 times during his off feed time. Proud of him taking that meal and just thought id let you people know. He is a spoiled guy, sitting at roughly 4 ft

    • @klairissanchubarb
      @klairissanchubarb 2 года назад +13

      Hey could you share some more about you’re story ? my ball python hasn’t eaten since February and I’ve tried everything . My first instinct was to go to the vet and what they told me was he was on a “hunger strike” . I was so mad because he wasn’t sick he was just refusing to eat, and every 2 to 3 weeks I try to offer him food but he just doesn’t want to , he moves fine , he’s active a lot , drinks his water , and hasn’t made any major weight changes , he even shed twice.

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

    • @DZrache
      @DZrache 2 года назад +14

      I've heard of BPs doing this sometimes. If they're not losing weight, I guess it's just something some of them do sometimes? A kind of pseudo-brumation or something.

    • @kdub0325
      @kdub0325 2 года назад +6

      @@klairissanchubarb my adult female bp did the same. I got her in November of 2020 and she barely ate for me for the first time 7 weeks ago. She hardly lost weight and she was still drinking and shedding as normal, just not pooping very often. I tried offering live and frozen/thawed rodents but she didn't have any of it. Sometimes bp's go off feed bc of breeding season and the winter months, which I think overlap. But since we're in August now that might not be the case for you. If your humidity and heat levels are the way they should be, it could be something else. Ball pythons can be super picky.

    • @blazertundra
      @blazertundra 2 года назад +9

      My 22 year old BP went off feed for 4 months this year and same thing. Active, bright-eyed, and minimal weight loss. He ate his first post-fast mouse last week. Now he's sizing me up every time I open the enclosure and doesn't want to take "no food" for an answer when I'm poking his head with the snake hook.
      This is the second time he has gone off feed for months. His last stint was 15 years ago and lasted 9 months. It seems to me it's pretty normal for them but it's always a relief when they get hungry again.

  • @spacedimensia
    @spacedimensia 2 года назад +2

    It's so good to see people taking care of feeders. It keeps them healthy and happy! And even if they'll be food one day, the care put into them goes toward care put toward the pet being fed! AntsCanada has some amazing roach worlds for the same purpose. So good to see this.

  • @kevinvest9693
    @kevinvest9693 Год назад +3

    Emily is such a positive and excited person. She's helped me discover my love for reptiles. Now i want a snake when i move out! My roommate has a phobia of snakes.

  • @dixiecupps320
    @dixiecupps320 2 года назад +340

    This shows how much you guys care. Giving even the feeders you breed enrichment and care and watching out for their needs. Also I could watch those rats and mice and soft furs playing and running around forever

    • @ellenandjames1404
      @ellenandjames1404 2 года назад +5

      Deleted
      I tried to talk about mice, everyone explained how the rats are treated well. I watched a male mouse, pregnant female mouse, and another female mouse put together. That's crazy, but whatever, you win.

    • @GarmrKiDar
      @GarmrKiDar 2 года назад +33

      @@ellenandjames1404 they say explicitly that the males are rotated periodically for breeding purposes; they're not permanently housed with the females, so most of the time each habitat has only two females.

    • @urgae9125
      @urgae9125 2 года назад +22

      @@ellenandjames1404 no one else agreed with you, so you liked your own comment. Watch the video, they literally say they don't keep the males in there any longer than it takes for procreation.

    • @ellenandjames1404
      @ellenandjames1404 2 года назад

      @@GarmrKiDar They said that about the rats.

    • @ellenandjames1404
      @ellenandjames1404 2 года назад +2

      @@urgae9125 For rats, yes. Oh, I liked my own comment instantly, because why not?

  • @annarainexo
    @annarainexo 2 года назад +168

    This is the most humane rodent breeding setup I have ever seen. You guys take the time to enrich and love these animals, even if they are only a small piece of the circle of life and food chain❤️ Through this video you treated them with the same love and respect I’ve seen you show to your personal reptiles and other animal friends.
    Breeders should take notes from how to run a sustainable, responsible and respectful environment for their animals.

  • @floopyboo
    @floopyboo 2 месяца назад

    As someone who has had a pet rat before, I am SO GLAD y'all are treating your feeders well.

  • @MartellaNutella
    @MartellaNutella 4 месяца назад +3

    As a rat owner, I very much appreciate the care give them, even if they are to be feeders. They should still have happy little lives! And rats are incredibly smart ❤ thank you Emily

  • @canaryinacoalmine_
    @canaryinacoalmine_ 2 года назад +272

    I actually started crying when u showed that there was gonna be enrichment thank you so so so much for being so great to them, as a mouse and rat owner with them being pets! Thank you so so much

  • @dragon_ash6078
    @dragon_ash6078 2 года назад +354

    Im so glad you breed them responsibly and care for the rodents before you feed them to snakes! I seen so many feeder breeders mistreat the rodents

    • @responsiblepetowner0166
      @responsiblepetowner0166 2 года назад +20

      They do not teat them the best the cages are too small and the mice do not have big enough wheels and not enough bedding also you should never put a rat in a bin

    • @cl5840
      @cl5840 2 года назад +18

      I wouldn’t call them being kept in tiny bins which is absolute no no because of ammonia build up caring for them

    • @paigecoleman1628
      @paigecoleman1628 2 года назад +3

      @@cl5840 fr. Literally the only video I’ve ever disliked on their channel

    • @responsiblepetowner0166
      @responsiblepetowner0166 2 года назад

      @@cl5840 I wish only people like you got rats and mice

    • @gontathegentleman9833
      @gontathegentleman9833 2 года назад +38

      @@responsiblepetowner0166 see the whole video god dammit.
      She cant give more space or the snakes wont have enough food.
      She wishes she could give them as much space as they need but she cant.

  • @1024998
    @1024998 2 года назад +1

    I really appreciate that your feeders are still treated will kindness, care, and respect even though they are meant to food. They get to enjoy their life (however long that may be) and don’t have to be overly stressed.

  • @tamaradavis2276
    @tamaradavis2276 8 месяцев назад +3

    Everyone has to eat and these rodents are given more consideration and care than most food produced for people.

  • @flaminghotcheetosarebest7117
    @flaminghotcheetosarebest7117 2 года назад +248

    finally a channel where they treat rodents like living breathing thinking beings.

  • @Dandylion567
    @Dandylion567 2 года назад +963

    This is the reason why I won't ever have any reptile other than an herbivore, but it's so nice to see how well you treat the animals in spite of their eventual purpose as food. I also adore those African soft furs; they look like rats with all the cutest qualities exaggerated.

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

    • @seanrallis6714
      @seanrallis6714 2 года назад +38

      What about reptiles that eat insects? Beardies, ringneck snakes, etc.? They can be a more pleasant alternative if you don't like feeding something rodents. Something to consider. 🙂

    • @samueldsouza8797
      @samueldsouza8797 2 года назад +7

      there are garter snakes

    • @landonfullmer7972
      @landonfullmer7972 2 года назад +3

      Yeah the garder snake comment they can eat fish and crickets and others

    • @Dandylion567
      @Dandylion567 2 года назад +10

      @@seanrallis6714 Well, as a whole, my family has two reptiles. My sister has a leopard gecko, and we have a box turtle as well. They're just not my personal pets that I am solely responsible for feeding, and I'm moving out soon since I graduated college. But I just don't like feeding living things even when they're crickets or something. I'll feed fish blood worms or brine shrimp, but that's about it. I get guilty with anything else. 😅

  • @tsugaloe
    @tsugaloe 2 года назад +1

    I love your setup! It breaks my heart a little that they are feeders but it warms my heart that they are so well taken care of and the reptiles they feed will be fed humanely.

  • @HANNN3R
    @HANNN3R Месяц назад +1

    I love that you respect and care for every single animal, even those that are going to eventually be food. I'm so happy that you got your racks!!

  • @sagequiggle6000
    @sagequiggle6000 2 года назад +347

    This is incredible. I used to work in a laboratory and the rats were kept in tubs half that size, there were 3 to a cage, and they had no enrichment. No hides, no chews, no treats. Just corncob bedding, food, water and barely enough space to turn around in. It was truly heartbreaking and I'm so happy to see how well cared for your feeder animals are!

    • @leonievw2466
      @leonievw2466 2 года назад +18

      That is so sad to hear, poor animals.

    • @TheWolfspirit22
      @TheWolfspirit22 2 года назад

      Labs who use animals should not exist.

    • @burntbeansoup
      @burntbeansoup Год назад +1

      Why did you work there?

    • @sagequiggle6000
      @sagequiggle6000 Год назад +30

      @@burntbeansoup Because in the field of molecular biology that is typically where you start before you can work with human tissues, medicine and research.

    • @Dinoboy3060
      @Dinoboy3060 Год назад

      They're gonna be used for testing anyway

  • @foullily8325
    @foullily8325 2 года назад +401

    Emily was talking about having bad enclosures for the rats and mice, but these are pretty amazing for just feeder/breeding rodents. Ive seen some horrid conditions for "fodder" because they are just that, so people dont care about their living space :(

    • @steveshermer7595
      @steveshermer7595 2 года назад +31

      A happy rat is a healthy rat and a healthy rat makes good food. That's beyond the basic respect for life... So, it just makes sense to give them a place to grow and breed and live their best life.

    • @mikikiki2259
      @mikikiki2259 2 года назад +25

      I've seen worse conditions for actual pets! I adore Emily's kindness for her rats, it's so refreshing to see.
      This video also has good information to know for rat care!

    • @defnedemirhan2218
      @defnedemirhan2218 2 года назад +1

      ruclips.net/video/KQy0UegWJ6o/видео.html

  • @tinahaynes175
    @tinahaynes175 Год назад +4

    you treat your "pet food" better than I've seen some stores treat their bagged kibble. Thank you for being the wonderful people that you are!!

  • @laurenwhite678
    @laurenwhite678 2 года назад +2

    I've probably watched this video around 30 times. I don't know what it is about this video but it's one of my favorites and I watch it almost everytime it shows in my recommended

  • @annegamesyarns
    @annegamesyarns 2 года назад +965

    Snake Discovery never disappoints. They are showing the world the way it's supposed to be done. Not just with the reptiles, but also the feeders.

    • @dianayu8664
      @dianayu8664 2 года назад +4

      yeah I love their channel!

    • @nicholekushner6308
      @nicholekushner6308 Год назад +3

      It’s so wonderfully lovely 🥰

    • @spinnyquack56
      @spinnyquack56 Год назад +5

      Nope, the way the rats are housed are in absolute horrible conditions

    • @hammylover4life225
      @hammylover4life225 Год назад +16

      @@spinnyquack56 As i agree they're not pets they are going to be food in a short amount of time, they also have much better set ups then some ive seen where they just throw them in an overcrowded tub and make them constantly breed.

    • @getmotherd613
      @getmotherd613 Год назад +7

      @@spinnyquack56 only thing they could change is the size of the enclosures their rats are in but even that is not really possible if they are going to produce the amount of rodents that they need to.
      standards are different for pets and feeders for a reason

  • @auddydoe8358
    @auddydoe8358 2 года назад +254

    I’m just putting this on every video til it gets noticed, but Emily, Ed, and Rex should be Loki variants for Halloween. Awesome little family costumes

    • @venusvirgo2329
      @venusvirgo2329 2 года назад +8

      this needs to be boosted bc this is the best idea

    • @ghostking7853
      @ghostking7853 2 года назад +6

      That would be amazing

    • @laraburgundy
      @laraburgundy 2 года назад +3

      Oh my gosh that would be perfect!

    • @sleepy8876
      @sleepy8876 2 года назад +2

      LOKI REX

    • @VidralliaArchives
      @VidralliaArchives 2 года назад +2

      I had this exact thought when I saw that episode.

  • @Hi_Im_Akward
    @Hi_Im_Akward 7 месяцев назад +2

    I was a little afraid to click on this video because I used to have pet rats, and rodents are really smart affectionate animals. I'm really happy to see such happy, healthy well socialized rodents and it looks like a very nice set up considering their job.

  • @Kiriliagorilia
    @Kiriliagorilia 10 месяцев назад +1

    The fact that even though they’re going to be fed to snakes your still keeping them in a proper enclosure is the reason I love this channel. You could’ve just put way too much in a 10 gallon or something then put paper flakes and called it a day but I’m glad that you went through the effort to give them a comfortable life even if they’re going to be fed to a snake.

  • @nicholasanderson9920
    @nicholasanderson9920 2 года назад +499

    Never commented on a RUclips video before, but I think this info is so darn important that it needs to be said.
    I am an avid customer of Snake discovery: a reptile experience and have been a long time fan of this channel. I am also "Nick" from the opening video with the bearded dragon named "Draco" ( if any of you remember me!) I also had a picky and stubborn hognose who went on a feeding strike two months straight for nothing other than not liking anything I gave him ( even the stuff the breeder recommended ) Emily was my savior. She suggested chicken hearts and it got him to now be the enthusiastic eater he is today who has now moved up to unscented fuzzles ( small fuzzies). I can't thank Emily enough for that.
    Now, why did I comment on this video? Well, it's because I can attest to the high quality of rodents I buy for my snake. My snake LOVES his rodents and the unique sizes provided in shop helps me and him transition safely from pinkies to fuzzies without regurgitation from overly sized rodents. This shop and Emily and particular have become almost close friends to me and my little menagerie. So, if you are in the area, don't wait to try this awesome and unique shop! It's still amazing, even without the zoo!
    Plus, they need all of our support in order to open by the end of the summer!

    • @kam-lw4ez
      @kam-lw4ez 2 года назад +1

      Nobody cares

    • @Kaikirith
      @Kaikirith 2 года назад +63

      @@kam-lw4ez you cared enough to reply to a two month old comment with no other replies

    • @mimilahood3868
      @mimilahood3868 2 года назад +5

      @@Kaikirith dam girl

    • @HollyWatson99
      @HollyWatson99 2 года назад +17

      thank you nick! i plan to visit america (im from queensland, australia) and im going to Minneapolis as soon as i can get to the US just to see this amazing zoo!! and in reply to the first commenter, i care :) went and checked out the video you mentioned, so cool youve ben here so long! only a new(ish) fan (maybe 18 months?). take care, and give your fuzzies a kiss from me!

    • @TryMyMartini
      @TryMyMartini 2 года назад +6

      @@kam-lw4ez I definitely cared. Quit being such an edgy little pre-teen. Someday you'll look back at this comment and be embarrassed by how cringe you are.
      And hey Nick, I'm so happy for you! You are so lucky to have such a great wealth of knowledge and resources nearby, not to mention great friends who share such an exciting interest!

  • @lemonpaperplanes
    @lemonpaperplanes 2 года назад +320

    Think of it like this guys, would you rather their setup in smaller bins where the rodents are happy and healthy or would you rather they consistently buy from other rodent breeders who might keep their breeder rats in worse conditions just to keep up with food demands their snakes need to survive?

    • @thestudio66
      @thestudio66 2 года назад +15

      *Thank you* for commenting this, it's *important* that people realize these facts!

    • @thatkewldino7398
      @thatkewldino7398 2 года назад +6

      there not happy tho- rats NEED climbing space, i understand that this is one of the better care for breeders but tbh it’s not great. 😕

    • @nuzz
      @nuzz 2 года назад +5

      That’s an amazing idea! I hope that your comment gains more attraction so that this idea can be viewed by Snake Discovery. For anyone wondering yes I do understand that these animals will be eaten by snakes and other reptiles, but just because they are feeders doesn’t mean that they don’t deserve the same care as companion rodents.

    • @raerohan4241
      @raerohan4241 2 года назад +10

      @@thatkewldino7398 Tbh it's a better setup than the vast majority of breeders out there. If anyone's discontent with it, they can pioneer a system where the rats are in pet quality setups but are still profitable themselves, instead of uselessly complaining about it.

    • @loboguara7887
      @loboguara7887 2 года назад +3

      @@thatkewldino7398 You're right, but you can't really keep them all in great conditions when you have this much carnivore animals to feed.
      I mean, ofc the bins could be at least twice maybe three times this size and probably breed the same amount of rodents in that room, but it's still better than what most labs/feeder breeders do. The conditions are improving.
      It's a lot of rodents to have, so the conditions won't realistically be much better than this, and if you have less rodents, the snakes/other carnivore animals will be hungry.
      It's a necessary evil if you want to breed/rescue lots of carnivore animals that happen to eat rodents/small animals

  • @noname.6665
    @noname.6665 9 месяцев назад +2

    I just see that one mouse or rat just trying to escape or jumping in the background in one of the bins, and it's hilarious 😂

  • @breidowell
    @breidowell 7 месяцев назад +3

    I’m very happy to see people treat all animals so well and with integrity. I understand many of these mice/rats are food but…I mean…in the end we all are….right??! 😒 but that doesn’t mean they need to be treated poorly or don’t deserve good, happy, calm lives while they are here ❤ and the little fuzzies (fuzzy pinkies) are sooooooo cute!!!! I’ve had several pet rodents and love ‘em but snakes love to eat ‘em too and that’s ok. Thanks for being humane, loving and kind breeders ❤ love your channel

  • @maylagesse
    @maylagesse 2 года назад +713

    Does Mandy live in the facility?
    Do you guys have her locked up in there? 😂

    • @cicelypatterson3927
      @cicelypatterson3927 2 года назад +97

      she gets no food except for dairy queen runs next door, she sleeps in the padded crawling area beneath rex's enclosure XD

    • @ladyunknown101
      @ladyunknown101 2 года назад +67

      Mandy has her own enclosure in the zoo i bet

    • @willow7555
      @willow7555 2 года назад +9

      @@ladyunknown101 100%

    • @malinjohansson6942
      @malinjohansson6942 2 года назад +4

      @@cicelypatterson3927 😂😂😂

    • @shizukaakatatsu22
      @shizukaakatatsu22 2 года назад +20

      @@ladyunknown101 the zoo IS her enclosure

  • @OminousSirens
    @OminousSirens 2 года назад +59

    As someone who loves rodents as well as rodent eating reptiles; I commend you guys for making sure that they have as good quality of life as a breeder rodent can have. These rats and mice are living better than the livestock we eat and unfortunately some pets. Thank you guys for treating them with respect.

  • @discofish7821
    @discofish7821 4 месяца назад

    ❤❤❤!!! Worked with rats and mice for years in the laboratory field, which is just miles away from what y'all are doing... but again, a kinda necessary evil. Absolutely LOVE ta see em sooo loved and cared for, not ta mention the commitment ta temperament and parenting ability (and of course colors too)... KUDOS and thank you!! 😊

  • @thequeenofducks8354
    @thequeenofducks8354 Год назад +2

    I own rats (pet) and I really appreciate how you still take care of them even tho they are feeders