Feeding question.

[rojarr2003]

I recently picked up my first Western hognose, he is an orange albino and just a fantastic little guy. He is I believe about 6 months old and 13 grams. He eats a single pinkie for me every 3-4 days, but in the last week or so when I try to move him back to his tank he has tried to bite me. Last night I was simply weighing him and he thought I was food and sank his tiny teeth into my pinkie. My question is should I be offering him 2 pinkies at a time now?

Thanks for any info.

[Virus]

After eating, he is in a temporary feeding frenzy, or just feeding mode. At this time, he's more likely to strike at you, as would any snake.


However, if you feel that he isn't getting full enough, then go ahead and try bumping up to two pinkies next time, however, if you increase the amount of food per feeding, then I would suggest increasing the period of time between feedings.

Oh, and post pictures!

[Foschi Exotic Serpents]

Feeding him in his enclosure would prevent the biting also.

[Virus]

Feeding him in his enclosure would prevent the biting also.

True indeed. I feed all of my snakes in their enclosures. Also, they are all on eco earth, and I haven't had any issues (and let's hope I continue that trend).

[TheWinWizard]

You can always lay down a paper towel or pice of newspaper as well.

[rojarr2003]

We fed him two last night and today he seems to be a lot more laid back, and we will feed him less often now.

Here are a couple pics and please forgive the hairy bed we have 5 cats as well.

[Virus]

Looks pretty happy to me! Right now my male is about 16-18", and he's eating two fuzzies a week. He could probably take a hopper, but I think it would be a smidge too big.

Anywho, I'm glad to hear he's doing well, and thanks for the pictures.

[rojarr2003]

Well and update we started him on two pinkies every 5 days. I have been feeding him in another container and he can be difficult to get out afterwards. Fed him last on Friday night and today he is very active. I decided to take him out of his tank, like usual I give him the chance to check me out and pick him up when I feel he is ready. This time he smelled me and acted like he was cool and as soon as I picked him up he grabbed me again. Do I need to bump him up another one or feed him a little more often? He is the only snake in our collection that I feed in a different container, if I feed him in his tank will I still be able to handle him?

I really like this little guy, but I don't want to get bit every other week.

[Ozz465]

Do u have any rodent smell on u>?? handled them recently?? some hogs i have are rather high strung and think it's food time all the time.

[rojarr2003]

All three times he got me I had not handled any rodents so I know that is not it. Since this post he has settled down and I have been feeding him in his enclosure. He has yet to bite again and even the hooding and hissing has calmed down for the most part. He's even doubled in size since we brought him home Christmas eve.