I wouldn't hesitate to recommend an already feeding pyro to a beginner (why not start out with the best?). As far as size, an '09 can often be larger than an '08 due to feeding habits. My largest female was very much undersized when she was younger (just wouldn't eat much) and then had a good feeding year and is now about as big as a pyro can get. I think this is a very common characteristic of pyros. With pyros, don't stress when they refuse meals. They will miss meals and then make up for it later and this doesn't seem to hurt them one bit as long as they have access to room temp or less. Feed them as much as they'll take in the spring within reason. That will set the stage for the year. If you feed them in a separate container, put a little water in with the mouse. Whether they have access to water in their caging or not, you'll find them drinking the water and for whatever reason that seems to stimulate them to eat and afterward poop (nice, huh?). Most of mine follow this routine, which is nice because there is a lot less spot cleaning of the cages required. One last thought: Get a male and a female because your thoughts of never wanting to breed them could likely change in the future.
snake adventures

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