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Hyper-active Cal King

kl_donaldson Mar 20, 2004 01:19 PM

My daughter wanted a Cal-King for her birthday so we have a new family member, BG. My previous experience was limited to boas. This snake is 18 inches of constant motion. We were told to feed one pinky a week. I think he/she would starve at that rate. We are feeding 1 pinky (thawed) every three days. There is no obvious rest after feeding. I don't want to over feed, does this quantity seem adequate? BG is in a ten gal tank. He burrowed while at the pet store, but no longer does. He goes like crazy from top to bottom of the tank. I didn't realize kings were so active.
Anyone with more experience, please respond about the feeding and whether or not this activity level is normal.
Thank you!

Replies (3)

MartinWhalin1 Mar 20, 2004 11:27 PM

Feeding once evry three days is fine for a baby but your snake won't starve at once a week.
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Martin Whalin
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Quotes from guys named Carl:

"Science stops at the frontier of logic. Nature does not, she thrives on ground as yet untrodden by theory."
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-Carl Kauffeld

lolaophidia Mar 21, 2004 12:48 AM

If the temps are over 85 degrees that may explain why the snake is being so active. I usually keep my Mexican Black King (similar requirements) at 83-85 for the hot spot and 73-75 for the cool side. Just a thought.
Also, feeding three times a week is more than I would feed, but that's just my opinion. I've had some young snakes that ate well twice a week, though I usually only feed once a week. If the snake is continuing to be active after feeding, I'll increase the number of prey items per feeding (up to two pinkies for instance) or increase the size of prey (to a small fuzzy). If you're used to Boas, there's definitely a difference in the metabolic rate with most colubrids. They do tend to be more active, eat more, and require more frequent cage cleaning... Hope you and your daughter enjoy the new snake!
Lora

kl_donaldson Mar 21, 2004 10:46 AM

The temp range is about 75-82/3 It's only a ten gallon tank.
I didn't expect him to be so active. He's docile and slides right on to Kate's hand when she opens the cage. She does enjoy him, Thanks

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