So just an update: I texted the breeder and he said this snake had been on rat pups. I had previously asked what he was eating but he had just said "f/t or live" and didn't say what, so I assumed it was mice because I've never heard of anyone feeding TPRSes, or snakes similar to this, rats. He also revealed to me that he was drop feeding him.

So, I did try to feed him a mouse last night (defrosted in a baggie so it wasn't wet, and I brained it--or at least, poked a small hole in its skull). He will go smell the mouse if it's on tongs, and seems curious about it, but again, he wouldn't take it. I have left it in overnight and it is still there this morning, so I'm kind of doubting he'll take it, unless he likes it stinky and near-decomposing.

Anyway, I may be able to get a frozen rat from my friend who has a red tail boa, in order to scent the mice. Do you think I should try scenting them? I'd rather not just buy a pack of rats, which would mean he'd be eating rats for like another year-plus, and it would be a waste of money for me. I'd prefer to get him on mice because it's what I have, and I have never seen anyone recommend rats for this species.

Basically, should I be trying to scent by his next meal (assuming he refuses this one, when should I try next?), or should I try to get him to take mice without it? Would he just be hungry by then? It has probably been about 3 weeks since his last meal, which was with his previous keeper.