My input regarding how to get a STUBBORN ball python to eat

[Lizardlicks]

Man, none of my snakes even wait for me to dance the dang rat save for when they're still nervous little babies just starting the F/T switch. Before long they all come flying for it like a freight train and I gotta make sure my fingers are far enough back on the tongs to not get got in the process.

ASF are illegal to keep and therefor breed in some states, so you might not be able to find any locally depending on where you live.

[predatorkeeper87]

ASF are illegal to keep and therefor breed in some states, so you might not be able to find any locally depending on where you live.

valid point, forgot all about that.

[Vithaxton]

Thanks for the input guys! I was really curious about that! And I know an exotic store in Houston has them but they don't breed them! That's really cool though! I almost bought a huge female piebald for super cheap but stopped when it said she only ate African soft furs lol I never knew they were illegal to breed though! You learn something new every day!


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[predatorkeeper87]

not just illegal to breed, illegal to own in certain states. Its the idea of a warm climate rodent being accidently or purposely released in a similar climate state, think Florida and the fact that its basically a zoo for south American fish, reptiles and the like lol.

You'd be able to find out real fast with a quick call to your state's game wardens most likely. They tend to know what are and aren't allowed

[Lizardlicks]

If a store was carrying them for sale as pets in your area then you probably don't have a problem. They're are rather expensive due to a boom in popularity as pets though. If the snake is eating them F/T you can order bulk for Perfect Prey and it looks like the price runs only a little bit higher than the usual European rats. Still have to pay shipping though.

[BWB]

My ball stopped about a month ago. I warm up her rat, do the zombie dance and if she doesn't strike at it, leave it on a cardboard mat in her cage for the evening. Since she has taken a break (did this last year as well), I attempt to feed her when one of my boas are due to be fed. That way if she refuses, then one of the boys gets his meal before I go to bed. If the ball eats then the boa gets fed next day - they will never refuse a meal, such great eaters unlike the pain in the butt but adorable ball!