Quote Originally Posted by Mr. Misha View Post
Best advise right here.

Once your BP is on large mice or multiple large mice, then start thinking about switching. I also second the strong feeding routine. Try to feed on the same day and you'll see that your BP will quickly learn his feeding day.
I agree on sticking to mice for now, but larger than hoppers. Hoppers are primarily water and are only used for BPs first 3-5 meals.

However, I wholeheartedly disagree about feeding on a strict schedule. NONE of my snakes eat on a schedule. Why? Because they don't eat on a schedule in nature. They don't eat every week either. And guess what??? Both my BPs eat year round. Almost never refuse. Why? Because I feed when they're hungry, not on a schedule.

We can only do so much to mimic their natural surroundings, schedules, etc... And feeding on a strict schedule is not something snakes do. Most snakes are opportunistic eaters who only hunt if they're hungry. BPs definitely fit that description.

Also keep in mind weekly feeding leads to obese animals and food refusals. Many BPs we see in captivity are actually over weight.