I think some Balls are just picky eaters. I have snakes I handle ALL the time and they eat great. Personally, if you have a snake that is clearly a pet, you would think you would want to handle it...or whats the point?? If your not breeding to make money, then interaction with your pet is the whole idea - no? I dont know...maybe its me??



I dont think there is any easy answer. I would get her a smaller hide or even a smaller enclosure like someone reccomended (I think?). Also, I would buy a cheap digital scale ( I am not sure what your financial situation is but they are like $20 at Wal-Mart). This will allow you to accurately track Natasha's weight and even if she only eats 6 times a year, you can at least know she isnt in danger of losing so much body mass that she will be in danger. If she is losing too much weight, there are steps you can take to keep her alive until you figure her picky ways out - hopefully.



I really think you should get another snake (not get rid of Natasha) just if you have another that you know eats well, even if handled everday, YOU wont be so stressed. I think Natashe is just one of those snakes (maybe?) that are though to deal with. Its not your fault, you seem to be doing everything just fine for the most part. It surely isnt for lack of trying - right?



I have several great eating normals on hand right now(some are % het albinos) and I also have a few 300-600 gram females, that love to be handled (my kids take them out all the time). If you want to pay just for shipping, I will send you a really good eater that you can interact with. Not to replace Natasha, you can work with her, but you will at least have one that will clearly thrive in your care? Its up to you, message me and we can set it up for like $30-55 or so..I think you said you live in Fla. right? Unless you want to drive to Connecticut, you can pick one out for free.



~Alan

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