Chickens as feed?

I wish I could find it, but the only noticeable difference between rodents and chicks, is a higher ratio of Ash.

Protein, calcium, etc, it all quite close.

I have a few adults that are chick feeders, as well as some of the colubrids.

In the wild BPs will take a higher range of feeders than we give them credit for.

All of these snakes still take rodents if offered, but I got a good deal of FT chicks, figured I would try it (and was previously opposed) and have to say the world did not come crashing down like I had previously prophecied.

My one hold out male, has not been feeding consistently for well over a year, will take FT chicks (3 a week) and has been gaining weight, shedding, and passing like a champ.

One of my other girls is just the Queen of Garbage disposals. I give her 2 chicks and a rat each meal and have no issues with her.

But I would know that many will not take chicks, or may take them once then never again. As far as imprinting on chicks... I do not think chicks have enough of a distinct scent to be honest.

I scent my chicks with rat bedding, if I do not then I do not get the same feed response.

bruce

I was hoping I could hear from someone that has already done it.

Thanks a bunch, I'll just buy a few today and then after seeing the outcome I might buy more. Btw do you leave the feathers on?


Thanks

I agree that you do hear about the problems all the time, but usually from someone who heard it from someone else who heard it from someone else etc... Gotta admit that I've never tried it. You should try it. Keep really good records on the snakes weight, how easily they take the chicks, any smell problems you encounter and other stuff like that and then report back to us with the data you've accumulated in about a year. It would be interesting to finally hear some first hand reports.