I have a 3.5 ft California Kingsnake that has been eating well since I caught her last May. Then she shed her skin. I figured she would be famished since she skipped a feeding right before the shedding. I bought 2 live mice like I always do, but she wouldn't eat them. Usually she pounces right on them.

Its been almost 3 weeks since the shedding. I kept the mice and try to reintroduce them to her every few days but so far nothing. I noticed when I held her yesterday that her belly scales are loose and getting milky colored. Is she shedding again? Is it normal to shed twice in a row without eating in between?

Also, I have been calling her a she, but have no idea whether it is male or female. I might have asked this question before but how do I find out? Would a vet be better than a pet store in determining sex? How much should I expect to pay to find out? (any hobbyists in CA that can help me please email me)

Another question...now that the months are getting colder, will it get too cold for her at night. We usually keep our thermostat about 68-72. Currently she is on display in a 20 gal. tank in my living room. Will the under-tank heater I bought at a pet store for her be good enough?

Any advice will be helpful. Forgive me, this is my first snake ever. I really like it though.

-=macvette=-
Bakersfield, CA