Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey guys,

A buddy of mine has had a GTP for about a year that he picked up at a show (I think it was a captive hatched). As far as I know the snake has always been a really strong eater and hasn't had any shedding problems etc. Two days ago he fed the snake and then the next morning the snake was dead. It hadn't regurged or anything and he said everything seemed to be ok with the snake (except for the dead part). I'm more experienced with balls and bloods so I didn't really know what to tell him and I'm a few hours away so I haven't seen the snake. Has anyone had this happen before? I think I remember reading somewhere that this can happen with GTP's after about a year, especially if they aren't captive bred? Anyway, I thought maybe some people with more experience with tree pythons might know anything more.

Thanks,
Brian

Sudden death syndrome can happen to any chondro, but it seems to be more prevalent in the imported stuff. Either due to parasites or perhaps unknown problems caused by the stress of long shipping etc. that creates health problems that we don't notice at the time. Usually this occurs within the first 3 years. Very sorry to hear of the loss of your friend's chondro. He might consider a well established captive born and bred animal in the future which would give him a much better chance of longevity.
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Thanks for the reply. SDS is probably what it was since he had it for a year with no medical problems at all. Real shame too, the little guy was just starting to get his green colors too.