Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I currently have a neonate copperhead that was recently aquired. I need help getting him to feed. I have tried everything, dangling a mouse, and all other tricks i know. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I have a similar problem. I've got two broadband coppers from the same clutch. One of them is 14" and eats anything you put in it's cage. The other is still around 9" and only occasionaly will eat a lizard. Short of force feeding I've tryed everything.
I can tell you this though. Mine has gone as long as 4 months without feeding. It is small compared to the other, a little skinny, but it looks and acts healthy.
GOOD LUCK

Dangling a mouse will probably not be very effective with a neonate copperhead. Neonate snakes are usually pretty nervous and you would probably have better luck leaving a live pinky in it's hidebox or inside a ventilated deli cup with the snake. If this doesn't work, you can try scenting the pinky w/ a non toxic frog, toad or lizard.
You didn't mention what kind of copperhead you have or if it is W/C or CB. If you have to seek out alternate prey items, you might want to try small frogs (such as cricket frogs), small toads, lizards, salamanders or even insects (young coppers eat cicadas, grubs, etc in the wild).
Probably the most important thing is to limit your interaction with the snake while it becomes acclimated. (Of course, also make sure all of the husbandry issues, temps, etc. are correct).
Good luck,
Chris

He is a northern copperhead that is WC. He strikes at a f/t pinky mouse, however does not hold onto it. I am going to try a live one today. I will keep you posted.
Thanks,
Kris

I've gotten wc copperheads to accept small frogs (pickeral or leopard have worked).

Typically as stated above, you'll need to leave the snake alone(I only watched the snake eat once, and happened to see it caudal luring the frog). Also, the smaller the better(that's obvious).

Matt

Just because he's not hanging on doesn't mean he wont eat it. Most of the time they'll bite and release live prey and wait for it to die before they consume it. Leave it alone with a live pinky and check back in a couple hours.
Chris

I tried with a live pinky mouse today, and he struck at it but would not eat it. im goning to go catch some small frogs tomorrow, and try that.