most likely he was on live small rats,or even mice,my male went off feed one month after I got him don't know why he just won't eat its been one month today & he has lost only 2 grams,im not worried at all but I know Ball pythons eat live most of the time & most breeders feed live so there is no feeding issues,you should try live each week,Im waiting for mine to be ready to try this weekend. my females eate great!