Average Growth Rate???

[gotballs?]

Ok, i checked the FAQ's, read-me's, and did a general search... but found nothing. Here is my question...

What is the average growth rate for a BP? I got Tabitha when she was 3 months, and she was eating once a week, a sub-adult F/T.

About 3 weeks after I got her, I noticed that she was showing the typical hunger signs about 5 days after eating... out and about, looking around, "sniffing" the air, "yawning", and agressive-type behavior. Although she has never snapped at me.

So, I started feeding her every 5 days. She eats GREAT!

Since I got her, about 2 1/2 months ago, she has grown about 4 inches in length, and almost doubled her weight (from 118g to 210g).

So, is this normal? at the 6 monthish mark, how big should she be? How often should she be eating?

Sorry if these are common sense questions, but I am a very worriesome father...

Thanks ya'll!!!

[panthercz]

Too many variables to give an exact answer. Such as prey size, temps, frequency of feeding and the snakes own metabolism.

I personally like to see growth of around 100 grams a month in my younger snakes, when feeding once a week an appropriately sized prey item.

[Argentra]

Simple answer: There really is no set guide. Every snake is different and will grow and gain weight at their own rate. One of my normal girls is 18 months old and still only weighs around 500g, while the pastel I rescued in January 08 at 3 months old and 44g now weighs in at almost 600g.

The best thing to go by is: Is the snake filled-out but not overly plump? Are they active when they should be (i.e. at night or before feeding)? Are they too thin, with a triangular look or prominent spine? Are they regularly eating or are they refusing a lot of meals?
A healthy snake is filled out without being plump, has a round look without sunken in sides or raised spine, eats regularly and gains weight consistently (no matter the amount), defecates normally, has clear eyes and clean scales, and does not drop more than 5-10% in weight during refusal times.
Health is the key, and as long as you have that you shouldn't worry too much about growth rates.

[Somed00d]

sub adult F/T is that mice? I would be feeding her adult mice at that size or rat pups. I have some females that are probably 300g and they are under 5 months old. every snake is different as long as its healthy its fine!

I feed every 5 days until they are eating small rats.

Richard