Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Just noticed my 7 ft male redtail was sleeping on his side yesterday evening. His body was coiled in the hidebox as normal, but his head was extended about 2 feet out into the open and this portion was lying on his side his head was sitting upright. Opened the cage and he woke up right away and was immediatly upright. Placed him on his back and he was able to quickly right himself. Later on he was sleeping in a similar position. Everything else normal. Cage is 6 ft long about 80 on the cool end and 90 on the warm side. Feeding on large rats every other week (he will not eat on a weekly basis, normal) No regurgitation and normal stools. Active last nite and up soaking in the water dish like he does every day. Handeled as normal. Will get him into the vet ASAP (can take a couple days to get appt.) Anybody have a clue what I may be in for here?

I have adults do that every now and again (usually larger females). I believe it's fairly common behavior, probably nothing to worry about. But anytime you're worried, it's a good idea to have them looked at by a qualified vet.

Mark
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uncommonboa.com

Laying on side is common. With mine it indicates they are very warm. Soaking in water bowl daily and prowling around [at night] may indicate mites. Laying on side may be indication of discomfort from mites as well.
What kind of substrate do you use?
jsc
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"As hard as I've tried, just can't NOT do this"
John Crickmer

Mine will do that too from time to time. Sometimes after a meal, or before a shed, or on warmed nights.- not too uncommon.
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Snake room janitor

that slept on his BACK!
Literally!
Freaked me out!
He was fine though. Produced a couple of litters for me and everything.
Aaron