In the fall, one snake in each of these groups began refusing food. The other two snakes would eat and then move to the warm side, while these other two individuals chose to not eat and stay on the cool side. These non feeders each ate once or twice all winter. They maintained normal body condition, but fell significantly behind their siblings in growth. Beginning in march, both snakes began eating again and are now growing fast. We will see if they catch up to their sibs and see what they do this coming winter.



I thought that this was very interesting that siblings housed under identical husbandry would show such different responses. I should mention that one of my males that consistently goes off feed for the winter is the father to the group of kings.



So, I would like to know a little more about people who have experienced spontaneous brumations, vs people that have not experienced it.



I am curious about the following information..



Where do you live?

Do you have natural light cycles? timed lights? Etc?

What species are you referring to?

What is your temp gradient in the summer and winter?

Anything else you might think is relevant?

Do you know the original locality of the snakes?



Cheers

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