The Complete Chondro

Long anticipated, critically acclaimed, and finally available, this book really made a splash in the reptile community. The most amazing thing to me was the number of "non-chondro people" who picked up this book, flipped through it, and bought it. I attribute this to the excellent production quality, fine text and photos, and most importantly, the incredibly detailed and accurate information provided. Mr. Maxwell was able to write a book in which he shares what he has learned about chondros over the years in a almost narrative manner, making it easy and fun to read.

In short, this book is "a comprehensive guide to the care and breeding of the Green Tree Python" For those new to the hobby, "chondro" is short for chondropython, the genus to which Green Tree Pythons once belonged, and are still sometimes referred to as.

If you are considering purchasing a green tree python, then this book should be required reading. It will give you every ounce of information needed to raise this sometimes tricky species. The book is divided into 3 sections with an additional 3 appendices. The sections include "Meet the Green Tree Python," "Captive Husbandry," and "Captive Breeding." Each section accounts for roughly 1/3 of the text, and as stated earlier, are very thorough.

The chapter on Geographic Races and Locality Types is especially interesting, as Mr. Maxwell took a solid position on a controversial subject, and supported his opinion. This information is valid not only when applied to chondros, but also with boas, chameleons, and other reptiles that vary in appearance due to geographic origin. Also of special interest to all reptile keepers are the chapters on genetics and choosing a healthy animal. Again, the guidelines here apply to many types of reptiles.

Other chapters cover: chondro myths, proper caging, feeding, defecation and shedding cycles, conditioning for breeding, egg laying, incubation, managing neonates, and much more (15 chapters in all). Appendices include: Solving common problems, references, and common medicinal dosages.

Don't buy a chondro without this book. Doing so will be disservice to you and your snake. This handsome volume is hardbound with a dust-jacket and is 247 pages. Highly Recommended. Visit LLLReptile.com to order.