Frequently Asked Questions
Are you trying to stop Kenyan sand boas from burrowing?
No.
Burrowing is normal behavior for the species. Every study animal will be provided enough substrate to completely bury itself.
We are selecting for voluntary differences in surface activity, not removing the opportunity to hide.
Are you genetically modifying the snakes?
No. This is traditional selective breeding.
We will observe naturally occurring behavioral variation and, if appropriate, breed unrelated animals that consistently show the traits being studied.
Do you know this behavior is genetic?
No. That is part of the question.
Behavior is influenced by genetics, environment, development, experience, and other factors.
The project exists to see whether surface activity responds to selective breeding under standardized conditions.
What happens if the experiment does not work?
We publish that too.
A lack of response to selection is still useful information. The project is not dependent on proving the original hypothesis correct.
Why approximately 20 founders?
We want enough animals to observe meaningful individual variation while keeping the project practical and allowing multiple independent source lines.
The target is approximately two animals from each of roughly ten breeders or bloodlines whenever practical.
Why not just remove most of the substrate?
Because then we would be changing the animal’s environment to manufacture the behavior we want to measure. That would defeat the purpose.
Will the snakes have hides?
Yes. The study will use standardized appropriately sized hides along with burrowing substrate.
How often will the animals be handled?
Routine disturbance will be minimized and standardized.
A weekly feeding and health procedure is planned, with additional intervention only as necessary for normal husbandry, safety, or health.
Will there be live video?
That is the plan.
The camera system will be used for both behavioral observation and public viewing when technically and practically appropriate.
Is this a business?
No. The project is primarily educational and experimental.
Animals not retained for future breeding may eventually be responsibly placed, and project-related proceeds are intended to support continued project costs.
Is this a nonprofit?
Not unless and until the project is legally organized as one.
Using a .org domain does not by itself mean the project is a registered nonprofit.
How long will the project take?
Years.
Kenyan sand boas need time to mature, and meaningful selective breeding requires multiple generations. There is no scientifically honest shortcut.
What is an "80% Surface" snake?
It is currently an aspirational concept, not an established classification.
If we eventually use a designation such as "80% Surface" or "Surface Line," the exact observation requirements and calculation will be publicly defined before animals are classified under it.
Still curious? Read the methods or get in touch.