Hey all you snake lovers out there! My name is Leah. I got my ball python, Nathan Balls in October, (his last name refers only to his species, by the way) and I've done a fair amout of research. But research only tells me so much, I also want to hear thoughts and advice from people who have experience, hence the reason I joined this site.

From what I can tell, he was not even close to being a baby when I bought him at PetSmart (I know its not the place to buy healthy pets, but I felt so bad for him, because he was getting so big, and no one wanted him). He was already about 18 inches long. I'm not sure what his sex is yet, I dunno if I have the heart to have him probed. After all, HE knows what he is, and since I don't plan on breeding him anytime soon, and I'd call him Nathan regardless, I'm not sure it matters. I THINK he is a male, though.
He is now probably over 3 feet long, and growing like a weed. He's is SUCH a healthy eater, almost never misses a meal!

He is also the most docile, laid back guy ever, and surprisingly cuddly for a snake, I think. And I'm his all time favorite person! I'm so lucky to have found him!

Anyways, I actually have a specific question, lol, about his rear opening. I don't know if I can say butt on here, but thats what it is. It was normal looking, but just recently I noticed at the edges, these "spur" looking things are poking out, one on each side. I searched online, but couldn't find much by way of explanation, and no pics at all that looked like what he looks like. I don't know if this is normal, or if I should be worried. So any of you here that may know what I'm talking about, please let me know. Otherwise, I'm off to find a more appropriate topic to post my concerns under.

Thank you all for your time and help.