Probing Question

[Anthony Renna]

How big should a ball python be before attempting to probe it safely and accurately. I won't be probing I'll be having someone with experience do it for me

[el8ch]

Probing can be done at any age.

When probing you have be sure that you are using the right sized probe, you are using a water based lubricant, that the tail section is held firmly as well as straight at all times and that not too much pressure is being applied once the probe has entered the animal.

It is good that you are going to have an experienced person do this for you as it it possible to injure your snake if this is done incorrectly. Have them work with you to show you how the probing process is done!

[CDs Ball Pythons]

Probing can be done at any age.

When probing you have be sure that you are using the right sized probe, you are using a water based lubricant, that the tail section is held firmly as well as straight at all times and that not too much pressure is being applied once the probe has entered the animal.

It is good that you are going to have an experienced person do this for you as it it possible to injure your snake if this is done incorrectly. Have them work with you to show you how the probing process is done!

This just about covers everything. And I am also glad you're going to have an experienced person help you for the first time. I remember how nerve racking my first probing was! (Is that an awkward statement? )

[LLLReptile]

You can probe any size baby, as others have pointed out, the important thing is just what size probe you use. It may be easier for you as a first timer to try probing a juvenile (1,000 gram or so) rather than a baby or full sized adult. A juvenile is big enough for it to be easy to sex, and small enough to be easy to control.

Babies IMO are easier and faster to just pop rather than probe, and adults can be a bit of a handful for a beginner trying to learn. Try a juvenile, and go from there!

-Jen