I have a 3 year old male. He has always gone through periods of fasting where he won't eat for 1 to 3 months at a time, but other than that he eats whatever I put in front of him, and eats heartily when he's eating.

My problem is this: while he is extremely hardy and well-fleshed, though not fat, he is still, at three, only about sixteen inches long.

Is this too small?

He doesn't shed often, either -- only about 4 times a year. Is this normal for hognoses? I've never heard it mentioned.

Also, how much larger than him can I expect my friend's yearling female with whom I mean to breed him to get? The female is a year old and about 10-12 inches long, and very healthy, though she's got a much more slender build.

Just thought you professional hognoze guys might be able to shed some light on this for me!

Thanks!

--Naamah