Ok, let's hear your methodology for getting hatchlings on F/T.
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Jay A. Martin
Jay Martin Reptiles
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How to get hatchlings on F/T?
jmartin104
Feb 28, 2007 03:09 PM
Replies (3)
toshamc
Feb 28, 2007 05:05 PM
I start them out on f/t - most of mine start taking them their first meal - those that don't usually just need one or two live meals before they convert. I've had equal success with acquired hatchings that have been established live feeders or non feeders.
Hatchings are easy - Now the older guys - they take a bit more work.
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Tosha
jmartin104
Feb 28, 2007 05:24 PM
Do you just drop 'em in or tease?
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Jay A. Martin
Jay Martin Reptiles
jfmoore
Mar 01, 2007 03:59 AM
Any hatchling snake of mine starts on frozen-thawed food, period.
For ball pythons, I heat the thawed food (small adult mice or fuzzy rats) above normal temps either in water or (preferably) under one of those lamps with an aluminum reflector, then present it on tongs. You know the drill from that point on, I'm sure.
For non-starters, sorry, but it's tough love time - and that means assist feeding. To make it as easy as possible on them and me, I'll go with something as small as a fuzzy mouse or even a pinkie. I don't want to force anything down their throats; I just want to introduce it into their mouths and allow instinct to take over and have them swallow the prey. If the item is too large, it is too easy for them to just back off of it as soon as you release your grip.
-Joan
