No reason for anyone to be offended. I use live prey, and would have it no other way. It is asphyxiation, they coil and apply pressure. Each time the prey let's thier breath out to try to get another breath of air, the snake constricts more thus not allowing the prey to bring any breath in at all. Then when the prey succombs to death the snake releases then enjoy's his meal. (Hopefully I didnt just talk out of my @$$)