Karl,
I have noticed that there is a very strong correlation between the size of the female green and the number of ova she produces, more so than with most other boids. The numbers that get fertilized varies, but the total number of ova produced in a reproductive cycle, young plus unfertilized ova, is very consistent. Females between 12 and 13 feet seem to consistently produce 25 to 30 ova. Greens in the 13 to 14 feet range 30 to 35 ova, and greens 14 to 15 feet produce between 35 and 40. In our litters, we have been seeing from 10% to 15% of the total as unfertilized ova. These are the numbers Jud and I have seen with females from three different bloodlines. I would be curious with your female, as she looks a little more swollen than other gravid females I’ve had. One thing that may account for her size is a high fertilization percentage.

I’ve never moistened the substrate prior to birth, but the amount of fluid that is expelled usually completely saturates the newspaper substrate of the entire cage, so I have never seen an issue with neos sticking to anything. However, I would not hesitate to do so if you feel there is a concern. I have not seen any pattern whatsoever with birthing in greens. I’ve had females drop at night, early morning, and late afternoon. You would think there would be some pattern, but I haven’t seen it.

The other interesting thing about greens is that the females always ingest any unfertilized ova that are produced. This usually takes place right after birth, and so the number of unfertilized ova produced with a litter will never be known unless you are right there at the time of parturition. Can’t wait to see the results,

Kelly

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