Rats for baby JCP?

[Jared2608]

So we've got a big expo coming up on the 17+18th of December. I'm going to go see if I can pick up a baby JCP.

I've spoken to a few breeders and they say most of the babies they sell are 6 to 8 weeks old. I have been reading up and all the info says that they can be picky feeders and don't always go over to rats as adults.

I was wondering if its possible to feed baby JCP's rats from when you get them. What size rats would a 6 or 8 old JCP eat? Would rat pinks be ok, or could they eat rat fuzzies? Obviously I don't to endanger the snake, but I figure that I've got more chance of getting a baby onto rats than an adult?

[mainbutter]

What you propose is exactly what I do.

Rat pinks are a great size for very young carpet pythons.

[Jared2608]

Thanks man! I'm thinking I'll buy a few of each, and then if he won't eat the rat pink on its own I'll scent it with the mouse. Or feed the mouse if I have to!!

Here I was thinking only BP's where fussy little critters!!!

[mainbutter]

Good luck! Keep in mind a few tips for feeding:

1) Wait a little while to let your snake settle in before offering food.. maybe a week. A scared snake won't eat.

2) Feed at night. Give your snake 10 mins to a half hour of dark before trying to feed. Keep any lights you have to turn on for feeding purposes low. I use a dim flashlight when feeding at night is the trick.

3) Feed WARM prey. They rely on their heat pits for hunting.

4) Feed with tongs/hemostats. That way your giant heat signature isn't near their heat pits.

[Jared2608]

Thanks, great info!! Come on Expo time!!