Re: Where do i go t get my Ball Python sexed???
Our caresheet here has a great list of reasons why a snake might not feed. It's unusual for a ball python under a year old to be fasting. Check this out and try to figure out what's off for her:
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WHY WON'T MY SNAKE EAT?
In almost all cases, a ball python refuses to eat due to husbandry issues. Especially a young one. If your snake misses more than one meal (sometimes they won't want to eat while in shed) please check the following possible causes:
Lack of Security -- No hides, or hides that are too large or exposed (ie: half logs). They prefer dark, tight hides they barely fit into. Also, if the enclosure is too large, or too open (glass) or in a high traffic area with a lot of loud noise or movement. Another snake in the same enclosure can also cause serious security issues.
Over Handling -- Frequent intrusions into the enclosure, changes to the enclosure, and/or long frequent handling sessions can cause a shy snake to feel vulnerable and refuse to eat.
Improper Temps -- Temps that are too high or too low, or temps that fluctuate too much. Make sure you have an accurate and consistent read on your temps.
Improper Lighting -- Bright white lights shining directly into the enclosure, or 24 hour lighting can cause stress. Make sure there is some sort of day/night cycle.
Offering New Prey -- Changing prey species (ie: mice to rats) or methods (ie: live to f/t) can cause refusal. Such changes can be made, but may require patience and persistence.
Improper Offering of Prey -- Offering prey too frequently can do more harm than good. If a snake refuses, do not attempt to feed again for a week. Also, changing environments by moving to a feeding-box or removing hides and "furniture" can cause refusal in these shy snakes.
Prey Too Large -- Too large an item may intimidate a snake and cause refusal, or even a regurgitation if it is eaten. Also, if a ball python has eaten large meals in the past, it can cause a sudden an indefinite period of fasting.
Mites -- An external parasite common to snakes that must be treated and eradicated. A product called Provent-a-Mite (P.A.M.) is the safest and most effective method.
Seasonal -- Sexually mature ball pythons may fast for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months during their mating season (typically anywhere from late fall to early spring) especially if a sexually mature snake of the opposite sex is in close proximity.
Illness -- If all other possible reasons are eliminated, a vet check may be in order to look for internal parasites, as well as possible infections to the skin, scales, mouth or respiratory system.
Fortunately, ball pythons are extremely hardy snakes that can go for months (if necessary) of fasting without suffering any ill effects. This gives a responsible keeper plenty of time to figure out why the snake refuses to eat and get them on a regular, consistent feeding regimen.
Re: Where do i go t get my Ball Python sexed???
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Originally Posted by
Gwen
That makes alot of sense, Im just curious at to why the temps sould be that much higher. And i will for sure get a digital thermometer.
Temps in the mid 70s can cause respiratory infections in bps. The reason you got the recommended temp range is because those are the temps that provide the best results when it comes to feeding and housing a happy healthy bp. You should read the sticky on top of the husbandry forum if you haven't already.
Re: Where do i go t get my Ball Python sexed???
Quote:
Originally Posted by
starmom
8Ball Adam has done a great popping video as has Ralph Davis. Check those out; it is easy to pop yourself once you watch these great vids :D
Only problem is you have to do it right or you can damage their sexual organs. So if you are planning on breeding them, the best suggestion is to take it to a herp vet or someone that has been dealing with snakes for many year. BE CARE!
Re: Where do i go t get my Ball Python sexed???
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Evilme5229
Only problem is you have to do it right or you can damage their sexual organs. So if you are planning on breeding them, the best suggestion is to take it to a herp vet or someone that has been dealing with snakes for many year. BE CARE!
I'm not sure this is truth as much as lore - it's pretty hard to do it incorrectly in a manner that harms the snake.
