Most have experienced, or know someone who has, the loss of a seemingly healthy adult snake for no discernable reason. Excluding the myriad of other possible causes, I'm postulating here that years of overfeeding taxes a snake's digestive system to the extent that it can fail. Nothing scientific, just throwing out a discussion topic. I feel snakes didn't evolve to be constantly digesting food, and their digestive system isn't able to withstand the constant "running" of the motor! Sooner or later something has to give.



It may not be the case w/hatchlings that are growing rapidly but seems to manifest itself into adulthood. Snakes, especially those that are predominantly ambush predators, would seem to have a high failure rate in securing prey. Sight hunters expend alot of energy hunting for prey and probably have dismal sucess on a weekly basis as well.



I guess I'm just extolling the virtues of "slow growing" and I feed my collection on what I feel is a "maintenance" schedule. They grow just fine of course they're always acting hungry. It may delay maturity a bit but IMHO, its just a healthier way for the animals in my care. Opinions?

Bill

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