In the wild, new hatchling Rats of this group (Grays, Yellows, Blacks, Everglades, Gulf Hammocks, Deckert’s, Texas etc.) eat rodent pinks if they are lucky to find them. They are and should be, of course, a keeper's first and cleanest choice.

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In nature, however, many, many hatchlings forage in nooks and crannies of trees (under loose bark, for example) and dine on Tree Frogs and lizards, well before they gobble up their first rodent.

If the animal is in danger of starving, get something into it like a small, North American tree frog (not terrestrial frogs or toads).

This is not a good food to continue (endoparasites), but 2 or 3 feedings and you can scent the pink with tree frog slime.

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If none available, a small Anole is second choice.

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There is a technique of tease-feeding pinks that has never failed for me but it takes some patience and finesse.

If you can get a natural feed, it's less stress for both of you!!!

Good luck.. Let us know how it works out.

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First Choice - Young of the year:

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Second Choice: small Anole.

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Regards, Bill McGighan

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