Ball found outside, getting it back on food

[waldo]

I got a call today from a family who found a good sized adult ball outside on the pavement in 100 F heat. I'm pretty much the only person around who will take in a snake on the drop of the hat so I have a new snake in a temp cage on the kitchen table

This is new experience for me though, I've not ever taken in one caught outside. He is a good body weight and very friendly, not head shy or easily startled at all. He is a bit beat up, has some scabbing down his spine. Makes me wonder if he squeezed out of a cage but it was rocky where he was found.

Is there anything special I should do as far as feeding goes? He had a really nasty, smelly liquid poo with nice urates. I figured he is probably pretty empty inside so I did offer a small thawed rat (the only size I have one hand) He checked it out for a moment then went back to glass surfing. I don't know if I should try bigger food next time, possibly live or keep trying with the smaller rats. I'm heading to town on Friday, will get more feeders and a bigger cage then.

I've never had a finicky eater or one go through a feeding strike, I just want to make sure he is settling back into captivity.

[M.P.C]

I would also be sure to post a local add or ask around the neighborhood, be kinda rude just to keep someones lost pet without trying to return it home. but do make sure to keep the add as vauge as possible and make anyone that responds describe the snake... as for feeding would jump straight to trying live

[bcr229]

I'd be concerned about the feces. If the snake was outside for a while and ate wild rodents it may now be carrying parasites. I'd have it tested ASAP.

[waldo]

I am seeking the owners, I don't particularly want to keep him. I was hoping the running feces might have been from all the river water the people who found him let him drink. If it continues, I'll get him tested.
I will try and track down a live rat today, it will probably have to wait until tomorrow when I can get to a bigger town.

[TheSnakeEye]

Idk if mice are just as easy for yo uto find, but you may want to try that. I feel they are more receptive to mice if you don't know what they are currently eating.

[waldo]

Mice aren't any easier to find locally, our pet store sells virtually nothing for snakes. I got a weight and length this morning, judging by size maybe a female? How do you think she looks? 1875 grams, 57 inches.

[Tarzan152]

Seem like you're doing all you can for this big guy/girl. Kudos to you. Hope you find the owner soon.

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[waldo]

I don't think the owner will be found. I've posted in various local facebook groups and tried to put word out but no one is interested in trying to help spread the word. Most people could care less about a lost snake and are quite confused as to why I am concerned.

None of the local animal shelters/vets or pet store have been contacted about a lost snake. I don't know what else I can do at this point. On top of that, I'm beginning to think she may be sick and need to be seen by a vet. I will try to find one tomorrow who is willing to see a snake.

[Ax01]

you're doing the best given the situation. i hope the best for u and the snake. do u think u will keep it if no owner is found and the snake checks out ok? It looks great in the pix.

[waldo]

Yeah, I plan on keeping her if I can't find the owner. Wasn't really looking for another snake but there is a reason she ended up with me.