The previous owner of my 6yo BP said he fed live mice in a cardboard box, and that the snake didn't want to be watched while eating. I also know collective wisdom is that BPs should be fed in their tank, and I have a higher risk of getting bit when moving the snake back after feeding, but I figure if this is the routine he's used to, I don't want to mess with it.

With F/T mice dipped in chicken broth, I've tried doing the zombie dance, but no strike. I've left the mouse in the box, and backed away, watching quietly. In all cases, he doesn't strike, and doesn't constrict. He sniffs the mouse over, and starts eating.

He's also tried eating sideways twice. Once he gave up and lost interest in his dinner. Once he tried, and after considerable failing managed to get it rotated, and then with difficulty due to the hind legs got it down butt first.

I figure I should be thanking my lucky stars that he's eating at all, but is this normal?