At this size (while comparing to your hand) this mali has to

be at least subadult size as I'm guessing upwards of three

years old - at minimum.



The femoral pores are often difficult to try to sex them by

at this time of year with any true accuracy as there's not a

lot of diff between adult males and females as far as pore

size, color and contrast. As the winter temps and climate

cool, they begin to slow down - not only in courting and

chasing but also in their physical appearances as well as

less colors displayed for the next few months. So no more

waxy pores or larger bulges till the coming spring. They

are at this time thinking more of the climate changes and

slowing/cooling down for the mid winter months.

Ain't nature just wonderful!



Also, what appears to resemble hemipenile bulges could

simply be tail base muscles not related to male bulges.

In addition, its dorsal color/pattern shown is also female

like at this age.



Her ventral side is lacking any striping or marbling as most

males would surely begin to display by this age/size instead

of this white/patternless bottom throughout.



Lastly, from the angle you show its head, it appears female

like to me as it looks to be narrow and also lacks the

enlarged jowls, hence - the cobra shaped head which most

males would have begun to develop by this size/age.



Besides Death and Taxes, hemipeni or eggs are a sure thing!



Just my two cents worth,



John

[ Reply To This Message ] [ Subscribe to this Thread ] [ Hide Replies ]