Posted by:
thomasm06
at Tue Nov 24 09:39:39 2009 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by thomasm06 ]
Hey,
I have a pair of four month old western hognose. They eat well(unless they want to skip a meal here and there), are active, and generally seem to be in good health. My female is ~10" long 12 grams and the male is ~10" long and is up to 14 grams (he eats more regularly than the female). I keep a very detailed log on genetics(mom & dad and what morph they are), DOB, feeding schedule, weekly weight reading, shed dates, and current photo.
My question is since I have had them they have not shed once(since September 4th). I don't know if it is something I am doing wrong or that they just don't need to shed. I would not usually be concerned but while holding the male the other day I noticed some of his belly scales looked worn down like he was gripping a rough surface. Any suggestions or theories?
I keep them in 10 gallon aquariums with wire mesh lids. Under tank heating for night warmth and a lamp for day heat and basking (if desired). Both lamps and UTHs are controlled by thermostats and take a daily reading with a laser thermometer(paranoid). Day temp mid 80s night temp mid 70s. Cage carpet under the substrate and substrate is cypress mulch. Always keep their water clean and fresh(no more than a day old). I spot clean after they defecate and replace the crater with a fresh handful of mulch.
I would appreciate any wisdom anyone can give on my little ones care and health and if I can change anything for the better.
Thanks,
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Thomas M. Marcy
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Madison, AL
Computer Scientist
Hognose Enthusiast
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 Scale condition and shedding questions. - thomasm06, Tue Nov 24 09:39:39 2009
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