Very strange tentacled snake behavior

[bioteacher]

Just speculating here, but I think one of a few things could be happening...

- He could not be eating because of competition with the larger male (hence the seeming skinnier). Although, at the Zoo in NYC they have a bunch set-up in one tank (not saying that's correct though or know about their success with them). This also wouldn't explain the "basking".

- The snake may have some sort of parasite/fungus and is trying to "self medicate" by drying itself. This would explain the weight loss, as well as shedding. This could be due to the introduction of several other animals.

- Depending on the type of water you're using (brackish, salt, fresh), it could be too salty for him and he's trying to excrete some of that salt on "land" where the humidity provides a higher concentration of freshwater.

- It really could just be basking... something not often seen because I'd imagine they'd be skittish above water due to potentially being prey. The heat light was probably too hot for it and basking in the cooler air may actually be nice?

By the way, these snakes are ovoviviparous - meaning no eggs to be found, but live births. Not sure if the births take place on land or in the water though. I'd suggest providing a slightly above water level muddy area for them to burrow in if need be.

I would suggest a quarantine tank for him. To move him, you could use a snake hook/tongs and place him in a bucket or bag filled with water... or use a fishing net. No worries about being bit then. Best of luck with 'em and let us know how it turns out! If you're in NY, anywhere near the Hudson Valley I'd love to take photos of them sometime if you have any interest (I'd send all the digital copies to you).