Converting live feeding bi to prekilled or frozen

[dakski]

I find my boas prefer the scent of the prey over the heat of the prey.

My pythons, with heat pits, like the prey warmed up with hot water for about a minute (hairdryer also works) before feeding and that tends to get them to happily strike/eat.

The boas, I defrost the prey in a plastic bag, at room temp, then put the baggie in warm water for about 30 seconds, and then offer to them. I think the last step is unnecessary, but I do it anyway.

My boas tend to go by scent and movement. I've had issues with them striking the acrylic doors before I can offer prey - hence having drapes over all my boa tanks. They smell the prey in the room and are ready. Behira, my BI female, will not eat if I leave it in her tank. She needs to strike. However, getting her to do that is pretty simple. Feliz, my BC, and Jeff, my male BI, strike too, but I've never tried leaving it for them. They are on the rats too quick anyway.

If your boa seems scared of the tongs, you can try leaving the prey item, but you might try offering it a little away from your boa and letting your boa come to it.

Also, if a mouse doesn't work, try a rat (appropriate size - rat pup is the size of an adult mouse). My boas LOVE rats, and seem to like that scent better than mice, although I cannot say they are too discerning.

Finally, are temps ok? Humidity ok? Ample hides?