There are many variables but assuming the snake is healthy and parasite free, and, assuming your environmental parameters are where they should be at, there are few things to consider:

1) Snake probably just needs more time to settle in. Don't offer food for a couple of weeks and then offer a f/t rodent that has been re-warmed. Or, if you have access to quail try that...most snakes can't resist them.

2) Re-check your temps, humidity levels and set up. Ambient temps are just as important as substrate temps - in some ways, more important. Also, try dumping a layer of field collected dead leaves (oak, etc.) - this will help your gaboon feel secure. 75 is good for your low end and middle area - try boosting ambient temps on the warm end to the low to mid 80's....but make sure the snake can get to cooler areas of its cage.

3) Give the snake a good misting prior to feeding - warm water mist.

4) Have you run fecals? Just something to consider.

In all honesty, three weeks is nothing to worry about - if it continues for another 4-6 weeks, then you may have to re-evaluate.

These are a few things I've used with success with this species. Good luck.

>>Hi, I just purchased my first gaboon viper and have had it about 3 weeks now, he is roughly 12 inches long, I keep him in a 20 gallon terrarium with douglas fir bark substrate, temperature hovers around 75 and humidity levels are at 60%, an undertank heating pad keeps one end of the enclosure at 84-88 degrees. The second day I had him I offered a fuzzy to no avail, I left it in there for 3 days and finally removed it. The second and third week I practiced the same procedure but with the same results, although the second week he proceeded to regurgitate his previous meal, he drinks regularly when I place him next to his water bowl. I have kept rattlesnakes and copperheads for many years now and have never experienced this problem, and now I am concerned that I might lose my first snake ever. Please help, any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks
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Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, IL

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