How do you measure follicle size?

[John1982]

I've tried palpating a million times and I just can't feel anything. I have three normal gals that I've been breeding since November, one going into shed. The one that is going into shed, I can't feel anything on her either but it might just be my technique. Any suggestions on palpating? Also, how can you determine follicle size without an Ultra Sound?

It's a lot easier to feel the follicles if you use something to reduce the friction you may encounter with bare hands. I use an old t-shirt when palpating. I apply a bit of pressure on the spine of the snake with my thumb, keeping my fingers pressing gently but firmly into the ventral scales. The female sucks her belly in while slithering through this grasp allowing me to feel the follicles as they bump over my fingertips. Hope this helps, John.