Ball Python feeding

[ballpythonsrock2]

One more thing: air is a GREAT insulator. That's why it takes much longer to thaw something just by setting it out on the counter, than it does if it's immersed
in water...water allows a much faster transfer of temperature.

I'm giving what you said a lot of thought. I am glad you stressed the cool water. I agree that seems better than warm or especially hot water and then I'll use the hair dryer or heat lamp to warm and dry it. How long does it take you using cool water to get a small rat defrosted? How about a mouse?

A friend of mine who owned a pet store once told me water is better because sometimes there are ice crystals inside that you don't know are there and can hurt the snake. That is the reason I put the feeder belly up when I do the air thaw method. Since I soon have to go to small rats I think you have pretty much talked me into it. Thanks for your input either way. Hope your post helps the OP too. He really should warm them up as well as thaw, whether using air or water. That will encourage a better hunger response.