Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,

I've had a grey-banded king snake for over 2 years now, since he was a hatchling. He's always been quite a good feeder and I've always fed him frozen mice or rat pups. Just over 4 months ago he stopped feeding all together. Running up to that he didn't seem so interested in his food. He'd strike it but not wrap around it or anything.

I've tried simulating a winter by reducing the temperature in the tank down to around 60-65 degrees for a couple of months but when I warmed him up again (to about 75-80 degrees) he still wasn't interested in feeding. I've even tried braining a mouse and he's still not taking it.

He appears to be completely healthy, shed his skin only last week (first time since he stopped feeding) and is active enough, just won't eat.

Should I be worried that he's not eaten for over 4 months now and is there anything I should be trying to get him to feed again?

Any advice would be gratefully recieved.
Thanks
David

Hi David

I'm no Grey Band expert, but there are many who are on the USA Kingsnake Forums. I would suggest searching the USA forum archives for info. Also, have a read on the new Grey Banded subforum and contact some who have posted there. Grey Bands are known for going off feed occasionally and I'm certain you'd find some people happy to help.

Here's a trick that works for my neonate Amazon Tree Boa. I place him inside a deli cup with two f/t pinkies and wait. Eventually he eats them. I've heard many others using this method with great success. Worth a try!

Best of luck. I hope this helps.

Bill

Hi Bill,

Thanks for the info. I'll give your trick a try.

David