Reptile & Amphibian Forums

When I first get my BP, how long should I wait to feed and handle?

When my BP starts shedding, should I wait until it has completely shed before feeding?

I know that you should only feed prey that is as thick as the BP's mid section, but how often should it be feed during the various ages?

I found a cool exotic pet store in my area highly recommended by an exotic vet that I know. They only have Captive Bred & Hatched BPs. I asked what they feed them and they said they take live mice, knock them out and then feed them to the BPs. Since they aren't feeding live prey, do you think it would be a smooth transition to feeding F/T prey?

Thank you in advance!!

...these answers will assume you're getting an '03 hatchling:
1) Let it settle in for a few to several days before feeding. Limit handling to a few minutes every few days until the snake has established feeding. If you're getting a nice fat well-started baby you'll have no trouble. Avoid the $8 jobs shown in the recent post!
2) The actual process of shedding should only take 20-30 minutes. For several days before this the snake will darken and get a milky cast to it, and the eyes will get milky-blue. The eyes will get clear again 1-2 days before the shed. Make SURE the humidity is high these 2 days, and you'll get a good shed. Usually they'll take a dump after the shed. Then feed.
3) Basically feed every 4-7 days depending on meal size and how fast you want the snake to grow.
4) Many BP are slow to transition onto F/T. Try dipping the thawed food item into hot (not boiling) water and offer in subdued light using 12-18" forceps.
Good Luck! Scott J. Michaels DVM