Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just purchased an adult male Blood Python from the FIRE show in Orlando. I got him home and in his new enclosure and noticed that he moves kind of strange. When he is moving, he lifts up part of his back about three inches from the floor. I have 6 snakes and have never seen any of them do this before. Is this normal for a Blood, or do you think something may be wrong with his spine?

Danielle

I seem to recall something about snakes having (I think it's called) a "vertibrae lift" or something like that, and if I recall correctly, the guy euthanized the snake that had that defect. I think it's bad...but I'm not sure how bad. Maybe it just makes him move funny and he'll be fine, I hope so!

I want a blood I want a blood! But bf won't let me... : (

Get rid of him and get a blood, you will be much happier! Just kidding... BEG!

Have you checked his entire ventral surface to make sure it is injury/disease free?

Is he opaque? I sometimes see my blood pythons lying with a short section of their bodies elevated when they are opaque or when they are disturbed and forced to crawl when opaque.

-Joan

>>I just purchased an adult male Blood Python from the FIRE show in Orlando. I got him home and in his new enclosure and noticed that he moves kind of strange. When he is moving, he lifts up part of his back about three inches from the floor. I have 6 snakes and have never seen any of them do this before. Is this normal for a Blood, or do you think something may be wrong with his spine?
>>
>>Danielle

Thank you for your advise. I will see if I can find anything out about the "vertebrae lift" you speak of.

Danielle