Should I try feeding?

[sorraia]

My new ball pythons came home about 4 days ago, last Thursday. Their breeder said their last meal was on Monday, so a week ago from today. I’ve read they should be left alone for a week to settle in before feeding is attempted. Every day I’ve seen them out of their hides at least once. Every time I check on them (a couple times a day to monitor temps and humidity, don’t open bins though) they at least have their heads poking out of the hides. They seem to be settling in fine, and even seem to be getting hungry. Should I go ahead and try feeding them, or wait a few more days? I don’t want to stress them out by attempting to feed them, but also don’t want to make them wait too long for food. They were hatched in August and September, so still youngsters.

[carlson]

I'd feed them if they don't want it they won't take it

[RoseyReps]

I would give it a shot. I fed my new additions according to their previous owner's/breeder's last feeding day. If they aren't interested, they aren't interested. Might as well give it a shot and see if you have piggies or not

[sorraia]

Thanks! I'll give feeding a go this evening.

[RestlessRobie]

X3 Offer worst that can happen is your snakes refuses. I have had snake eat a day or two after I received them and some take a little time to settle in. I would give it a try

[snakesRkewl]

I have had snakes eat the day they were shipped to me

If they don't eat then give them the week to get used to their new homes and go from there.

[sorraia]

Well I gave it a go, and Isabis ate a meal! Mojo is still thinking about it. We'll see what happens later. He is more shy than Isabis. (Also left the room dark and quiet so they wouldn't feel disturbed while eating.)

[snakesRkewl]

congrats!

[sorraia]

Their breeder suggested I try a mouse with Mojo. Since he doesn't have great access to rats, most of his snakes get mice. So I might give that a try if he doesn't decide he's hungry enough for a rat pup, and then if he'll take it I'll start working on converting him to rats. He might just be intimidated by the new prey item at this moment.

[sorraia]

Got a feed from the mojave this evening!
He refused a f/t rat pup, then refused a f/t mouse hopper. This evening he was so anxious to eat he came right out of his bin before I could even get the mouse in. Once he found the mouse, he took it right away. I wasn't too worried about it, but am happy to have him eat.