Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Recently in my local paper there was a free ball python. How could I resist? Upon ariving I was shocked at the condition of it. The snake was in a very large enclosure 2.5 Ft X 2.5 feet X 3.5 feet with one light as a source of heat. Its water dish was about an inch deep and about 3inches across. There was a live rat sharing the cage with it. The owners informed me that the snake had been bitten before and ever since had been food shy. The cage had the tips of several screws portruding around the edges. The snake had skin left over from previous sheds on most of its body. The snake is now mine. After several soaks the skin has come off. The most shocking thing is one of the eye caps. After removal I discovered that there were nine eyecaps over the eye. I have added a heat mat to the cage. Covered up the screws and gave the snake a large water bowl. The snake has already eaten one pre-killed smalle rat. Any suggestions on improving the situation would be greatly appreciated.

That poor snake. Thank goodness he now has you. It sounds like you are doing everything fine. It probably wouldn't hurt to get him to a vet for an over-all check up.

I am glad you rescued that poor snake. You saved its life. I hate hearing about ignorant assses who keep bp's in such horrible conditions as she was in.
If I may ask, how did you get the retained eyecap off? I am having the sam problem with a little female bp that I just rescued last week. Thanks!
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*~Ginevive~*

After several soakings to loosen the skin around the head I gently rubbed it and it began to peel. The eyecaps came off with the head skin. The snake was a little agitated but never attempted to bite.

Good for you. What a lucky snake. I hate to hear about animals being treated like that poor guy, but now it's a happy story. Way to go, and good luck with the poor thing.