Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey,

My beautiful Hog Island male refused food for the first time ever, and is spending time outside his hide looking up leaning in the corner. He has stayed in his dark phase (usually does when he's in a bad mood) for a week now. He is still flicking his tongue and active when handled, but just again refused food...this time live (first time live tried). He showed interest and struck at it, but that's it. He is 2 years old and has always been in perfect health. HELP!

Steve

Have you brought any new snakes into your collection? IBD isn't an airborne disease. Stargazing is very rigid, almost like a seizure. I really wouldn't be worrying about IBD unless you think your snake has been in contact with an infected animal. Any number of relatively minor illnesses could cause what you're describing. I'd keep tabs on his weight and watch for any other symptoms.
Is he perhaps thinking about breeding? I just know that male sand boas do the same thing when they hit that certain age this time of year.
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Peter: It's OK, I'll handle it. I read a book about something like this.
Brian: Are you sure it was a book? Are you sure it wasn't NOTHING?

There is some information on IBD here: www.vetmed.ufl.edu/sacs/wildlife/IBDINFO.html

-Joan