Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I found my female upside down the other morning, I thought for sure she was dead. I touched her and she immediately righted most of her body but the last couple of days has kept the last third of her body on it's side, slightly contorted as well. She hasn't eaten for about a month and has pooped recently, she is also probably about a month and a half pregnant. Does anyone have any insight into what might be wrong?
Thanks,
james

If you think there is a good chance of her being gravid, I wouldnt get too worked up about it. It is normal for gravid females to turn their belly upward, especially the lower third as you described. Maybe to help absorb sun to incubate the babies inside? Also it may be more comfortable, I cant imagine being so swollen in that area feels good. Keep an eye on her, but I wouldnt stir up too much fuss about it, its normal.

Also, you said she hasn't eaten. Is that because you havent offered food, or she is refusing? If she is refusing, dont worry about that either, that is also normal. However I would still offer it to her, in smaller meals, maybe half the size of what you would normally offer her, once every 3 weeks or so would be good. The meal will do both momma and the babies some good during the gestation period.

Some people have their own opinion of feeding, some would maintain a regular feeding schedule, some cut off food all together, thats just my opinion of what has worked for me.

But in my opinion, you have nothing to worry about except babies in a few short months. keep us posted. help this helps

Thanks for your input. I"m still concerned though because she never refused food or acted this way before last year's litter. No tongue flicking either. I"m not feeling good about this.

I'm thinking she''s got a belly full of slugs, the refusal of food
is pretty normal around here before a slugfest ensues.

Gravid fems do often roll to the side or lay with their belly up.

Although a gravid fem is always a worry, things can go wrong.

We take that chance with our animals when we
make the choice we make to breed them

Good luck

. . . Lar M
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Boas By Klevitz
Boas By Klevitz