Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey, kingfolk,

I recently purchased a pair of anery-het-ghost florida kings. Last week I noticed the female has developed a tic, which I'm guessing is some form of neurological disorder. When she pulls back in a strike position, her head will randomly shake as if trying to shake off something. There are no mites, and all my other charges are fine (kept on same bedding, fed from the same source of mice--RodentPro--and drink from the same source of water).

My questions:

1) Is there a genetic history of such disorders that I should be concerned about? I don't want to reproduce this trait (duh). The male of the pair is fine, but I won't be using the female for breeding.

2) What are some recommendations as to what to do with her? I don't want her, and if she needs to be culled, what is the recommended way?

It is depressing, too; they weren't cheap, and it makes me super hesitant to purchase anything high end. I accept these things pop up; I just don't want it to be an underlying condition I might contribute to perpetuating. Thanks for all responses!

fliptop

IMO,

First, if she eats fine, I would not feel like she would need to be culled. Keep her as a pet, or give her to someone who can give her a good home. Isn't her fault that she has this condition, and IMO, this should not be something that has death in her forecast so quickly.

Second, if this was recent, and you feel that it is possible she had the condition before you received her, let the breeder know, and maybe send her back and get a refund. See what the breeder can do for you on this. You didn't pay good money for this, and if this was something she did come to you with, you should be given some choices by the breeder as to what would be a good way to be compensated.

Good luck.
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Genesis 1:1

I agree with Billy. if it was a very recent purchase contact the breeder and at least ask him if he's ever seen any like this in his line? It may also not be a trait that is passed down? It may be worth trying to breed her and see if any offspring show the same signs. It is a risk, but not all ailments are passed down. I understand you wanting to start your projects with the best animals you can. Also if you payed good money for it as you said, it can feel like you got short ended. How long have you had it?
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King Snakes! Who can make a better mouse trap?
Jorge Sierra