Unexpected death: RIP Vera (necropsy?)

Well, tonight is a sad night. I went to feed two of my colubrids and found my snow corn female Vera passed away. It's totally unexpected and I'm at a loss for words really. I got her at the Phx Expo in November '11 at 33 grams: she would have been three years old this month on the 22nd.

I did notice though just two days ago her slowly opening and closing her mouth though: I've never seen her or any other one of my snakes do this before and knew it wasn't normal. I believe this may have had something to do with her passing: but at the time I thought it just a weird quirk.

I have her in the fridge and I believe she's been gone for under 24 hrs as only her top 1/4 was stiff (head and part of her neck): the rest of her body was still soft. I don't believe it's too late for a necropsy: I'll be calling my vet tomorrow.

I just don't know what happened and am worried about the others in my snake room. She was fed the same feeders that I've been feeding my other colubrids and balls: none are acting differently. She didn't have any odd lumps, coloring, or otherwise on her body: her mouth was open though and under her was some bloody substance that came from her mouth (like she coughed it up).

I'm just upset and crying, I hate this part of owning pets. It never gets easier: have it be a reptile or mammal.

Thanks for reading,
Angelica



When I first brought her home:

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i3...11Veracurl.jpg

Last pic taken back in May:

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i3...psbee1464d.jpg

**hugs** She was so beautiful. I'm really sorry for your loss. :(

A young corn passing out of the blue like that is troubling. Sorry for your loss.

Sorry for your loss Angelica. It is never easy saying goodbye to a member of the family.

Oh no. She was a beautiful little thing. Sorry for your loss :(

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I am so sorry :( Several months ago I suddenly lost my western hognose and I know how hard it is. She was gorgeous by the way. Please let us know what the vet says :(.

I am sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful snake.

I am so sorry for your loss. :( Please do keep us posted what the necropsy results are. I hope your other babies are all ok.

Sorry to hear that angelica, let us know what the necropsy says. This sounds bizarre...

She was a beautiful animal. So sorry for your loss. I hope the others will be okay and that you can get a necropsy done to get some answers. -hugs-