Snake/Lizard Training Target

prusaprinters

Want to train your snake or lizard? Experts use targets combined with food rewards to teach behaviors such as feeding or shifting out of their cages. You can see excellent and informative examples of this training technique applied to snakes on Lori Torrini's wonderful YouTube channel.These targets, also known as bridges or event markers, attach to sticks or rods. These were designed to friction fit 5/16" diameter fiberglass rods from TAP Plastics. The rods I got measured 0.33" in diameter (5/16 is actually 0.3125), so I designed-printed-adjusted until the fit was right. To help you size these to other types of rods, I've included a profile of the handle which you can print quickly to test for fit. If it's too small or too large, use the Scale control in PrusaSlicer to adjust then print again. When it fits, apply the same adjustment to the target, then print. If all else fails, sandpaper is your friend.[If you want to reduce the socket to ¼", scale the model in PrusaSlicer to 75.76%. This scaling will also reduce the target size, so you should apply it to the 4-inch model.]Wood works fine as a handle, too. You can find various lengths of wood dowels on Amazon and local hobby and craft shops. Choose diameters from 1/4" to 3/8" (6 mm - 9 mm), 18" to 30" (45 cm-75 cm) long.If you don’t want to adjust the files, get a rod that’s at most ¼" (6 mm) diameter and print the model as is. You can then wrap the rod with string or tape to increase its diameter for a flush fit. You can also use an expanding adhesive such as moistened Gorilla Glue (or other polyurethane glue) to fill the gap between your rod and the target handle.I've included two target diameters: 3 inch and 4 inch. The smaller target will work fine for most types of training, but if you're working with a nearsighted reticulated python, anaconda or alligator you might want the larger size.I’ve also added a 3-inch version designed to fasten with zip ties. It should work on any handle from about 1/4" to 3/8" (6 mm - 9 mm). Use sandpaper if your handle is too tight or bulk up thinner handles with tape.Experts recommend blue or green as target colors. These print in PETG with no supports or special settings.