Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello all, just looking for some feeding tips for my lone wolf survivor hatchling. (3 others died in the egg full term, still trying to figure out why)

Compared to the ones who didnt make it, this guy seems a little smaller. He hasnt expressed interest in pinkies. He is 8 days old and I began trying on day 4 every other day. No interest at all as of yet.

Also, doesnt seem too active as far as exploring his surroundings (10 gallon aquarium with mesh top and plenty of various hides, branches.)

Under the heat lamp is about 88. Room temp is around 81. Mesh top and light misting 2x per day. I live in AZ. so lack of humidity is a factor hence the misting.

Have handled a few times and then is the only time he has shown alot of energy.

At what stage, if this continues do I need to grow concerned. Obviously with this being my first live hatch, I want to do everything right.

Any and all tips on care and feeding of this hatchling are appreciated.

1.1 Diamonds
0.1 Python Pete 75% Diamond Cross (1st clutch)

Brad,

My 88% clutch hatched a few weeks back, and like you, I had only one survivor. My baby refused it's first few feedings as well, and my advice to you would be to leave it alone for a bit. Most of the time, the more we try to feed our babies, the more it stresses them out.

With that said, if you have not already, provide the animal with a perch in it's enclosure. Once you do this, within a day or two (assuming your temps are correct / 84-86 degrees) the animal will "perch", like any morelia.
Once perched, it's easier to get a striking response, and your baby will most likely grab a large pink, or small fuzzy mouse from tongs. First feedings tend to be easier with live prey, but I've had frozen thawed work as well.

Feel free to email me directly if I can be of further assistance.

Gary Schiavino
garyschiavino@yahoo.com

Gary,
thanks for the response, unfortunately the hatchling died this evening. 10 days old. Lots of question marks since I followed everything to the tee. I'm going to make a few modifications to my setup for this next year. I wish you luck with your survivor.

Brad

yeah man a perch is the answer. Now im no expert but my carpet took 80 some days after hatching before her first meal. Now she'll eat every day if i fed her.
Jason