Chris,

Interesting question without a clear answer. In captivity ball pythons are hatched out almost every month of the year, also according to the information in the video and handbook the whole cooling thing is subtle, a 5 degree difference, and I do cool mine. But I also beleive that male contact is necessary to continue the process of follicular development, so don't wait too long to acquire the male needed. About a month after I start the cooling process I will start introducing the females to the male every two weeks (plus or minus). I pay attention to shed dates and feeding response, sometimes an increased feeding response is a good sign that the process is beginning so continue to feed the beast during this time, she will stop when the time is right. So to answer that question " how long do you have from the start of the cooling process before the female absorbs her developing follicles?" I think it varies from female to female depending size, weight, and possibly age. Just get that male in so that the process can continue.

Have some fun and good luck, Mike Derks

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