Posted by:
mssdds
at Tue Oct 3 13:40:38 2006 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by mssdds ]
This post is somewhat related to an earlier recent post about neonate feeding protocols. We have eleven graybands out of the egg anywhere from three to five weeks now. Three of them have taken lizard-scented pinky mice right out my hand. The other eight are robust, but not interested in eating yet. Putting all of the inticement feeding techniques aside for a moment, of which I am well aware (braining, ivory or dove soaping, scenting with lizards, etc.), I would like to pose a question to those who are experienced in keeping neonates "up" for the winter through climate control. Has anyone out there routinely kept hatchlings up through the first winter season with success? If so, have you seen an increase in relative size compared to neonates that "went down" for a three or four month brumation period? Even though the neonates are captive-born, is there somehow imprinted within them an awareness that October is the time to hunker down for a four-month nap, even if the temps are kept at levels conducive to eating and digestion? I understand that if the neonates are going to brumate, it is essential to bring their body temps down to the 50-55 degree range so as to slow down the metabolism and minimize weight loss. Before I decide what to do with these hatchlings I would like to see if anyone out there in alterna cyberspace has any guidance or direction on this subject. Thank you for your time.
Marlon
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 Brumation vs. Staying Awake - mssdds, Tue Oct 3 13:40:38 2006
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