Since I started breeding BP’s a couple years ago every October / November my males begin their 6-7 month fast. I understand this is not unheard of, even normal for the breeding season. What I’m wondering though is what triggers this? I don’t bother doing a night drop for the males, yet they still seem to know when it’s breeding season. Could it be pheromones/scents from the female in the air or maybe just the changing natural light cycle?

I'm debating on moving my mature male BP's out of the same room as the females to see if I can get some extra meals in the males. I don’t like seeing these guys, especially the ones who don’t have partners up to weight yet fasting for so long.

For you other BP breeders, do you keep your mature males and females in the same room year round? Do you think separating them could increase the odds of getting in a few extra meals during the breeding season?