>>This year was the first time I attempted to raise up some pyros and greybands. I was wandering what some other keepers experiences have been getting other "mexicana type" king snakes to eat unscented pinkies. Which ones are more difficult and which species are easier? The species I'm interested in are thayeri, alterna, pyromelana, ruthveni, mexicana, and greeri. Thanks. Tyler.



Tyler.....

I believe it has much to do with husbandry set up and techniques.

Humidity gradients and Temperature gradients are optimal.

In the past I have had cornsnakes and holbrooki that were far more finicky feeders than any thayeri or alterna. Thayeri and Alterna, by the way have the worst "on-line" reputations as poor feeders, but I'd say corns and ball pythons are....I'm a mexicana/montane king breeder....LOL



In my experience these animals are individuals. In one Mexicana Complex King clutch you will have 6 that eat f/t pinks right away, 3 that wanted scented live pinks, 4 that want live pinks and 2 that want nothing but what they were designed for.....LIZARDS (Sceleporus, Uta, etc...)



Why do we always get discouraged when our Mexican kings refuse f/t EUROPEAN fancy mice? These kings are lizard eaters by design, but will feed on anything that opportunity gives them in their range.....



The best methods to date for me is to find their prey item of choice...Once they eat that items you will know what to scent with. Other reluctant feeders do well after a cooling period....



But to really answer your question....Mex Mex and Ruthveni seem to take those f/t European fancy mice more readily than pyros, alterna, greeri and zonata......All are good feeders if offered their food of choice!
-----
John Lassiter

Poor planning and procrastination on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part...

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