I believe the Barkers both have degrees in biology and both worked in (I don't recall which one) zoos with snakes, they both have published in journals. I tend to take their book as it is researched and referenced as well as any journal I have ever read. I am not questioning you or Dr E. Jacobson either. I have not had time to read the 2 papers I have found in addition to your posted link yet but much of the research is done with Boidea isn't it? I understood that they could be a passive carrier and carry with no symptoms for long periods of time, but Royals have not currently been found to be carriers but show symptoms quickly. I read this somewhere and as much as I hate it I cannot figure out where that was. My brief read (I have not had time to read in depth yet) (http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/college/de...JExoticPet.pdf)

that the article mentions "Boa constrictors affected by IBD also regurgitated food items within several days of feeding, in addition to the CNS disease signs described for pythons"

My understanding is that when it attacks the CNS neurological signs are rapid and evident. Is this incorrect? I could not find an reference to it. I don't have enough knowledge to make meaningful points at all. I have questions with out answers.

Has there been studies done on Royals and IBD or is it limited to Boidea?

Have there been documented cases of IBD in Royals that carry no outward signs?

When IBD enters CNS is there neurological issues?

Has there been Royals showing signs of IBD but with no CNS involvement?

I am not saying I have accurate information. I am not saying the information presented is not absolutely correct. I am saying does it apply to Royal Pythons the same way? I know boidea can carry IBD for ages I know of one whom has. What I don't know and have not seen any reference pointed to a meaningful study that Royals can carry the disease without outward symptoms. Do you have one?