Gopher Question

[MSG-KB]

Got a 5ft Gopher we Rescued about a week ago, seen to be in good shape and good weight. Moves around and friendly. We are unsure of the past eating types. We tried to feed this sat in a feeding cage with F/T Mouse and was a no go. So we tried a live mouse and also no go. So we are waiting till this Sat to try again.

We feed all but our GTP in a feeding cage. I am hoping another week will give he or her time to be more happy in new cage and area. But I deal more with Pythons.

Should he be feed in his cage? Or is it ok to feed in a feeding cage? Which type of food is better for them?

Any Help

Thanks

[JLC]

I only have experience with one gopher, so that this for what it's worth.

Mine was a very shy eater, and would often fast for weeks at a time. Much like a ball python. He'd eat consistently solidly for months and put on some good growth, then just quit eating for 2-3 months. I'd reduce feeding attempts to every two weeks during those times.

The only way he'd eat consistently is for the thawed prey to be placed in his enclosure, the enclosure then covered with a towel or blanket...and he left completely alone for a day. He would hunt live mice, too...but with his inconsistent schedule, I didn't like the chance of having to fish out a live mouse and figure out what to do with it, so we switched to f/t.

If he's five feet long, you really don't need to worry too much about him. He'll eat when he's ready. Don't offer prey more than once a week. That just adds to the stress. And then when you do offer it, keep out of his line of sight as much as possible...get it in there...and then get out of the way so he can be alone with it. Most likely when you check back the next day, the rodent will be gone.

[MSG-KB]

Thank You, That was a some good info and will try it.

[wilomn]

He may well be brumating even if he's indoors. The short day length is all it takes sometimes.

If he's got good body weight give him a couple of weeks and then give it a shot. Mine haven't eaten since Nov. and won't until next month. I keep them cool, but even without the cooling sometimes they go off feed in winter.

Pics always help.

[MSG-KB]

Thanks will get some soon

[Lucas339]

I have a few pines that won't eat of tongs and won't eat live. I just put a f/t rodent in with them and leave the room. They usually take it within a half hour or so.

[MSG-KB]

Well no luck this week end tried all. So I do think it is off feed. I will get a pic ASAP I been sick for 5 days so will get one soon.

Thanks for everyone input.

Terrance