Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I took in an e. milksnake in November that was found in someones basement who wanted it removed. Since it was too cold to release outside, I took it in. It has refused to eat even the smallest pinkie every time I've offered, but I have been able to keep it alive on rat-tails that I put in it's mouth (it swallows them itself). Since you are never suppose to release a captive snake (per DNR), any suggestions to get it to eat??? It is only 12 inches long. Thanks.

You will realize that these snakes arent active and wont be feeding for a while yet.To properly care for a reluctant feeder force-feeding is a LAST resort.I suggest trying to let it cool back down a bit(as it was trying to find the "perfect"hibernaculum when found no doubt).When it warms up and the snake knows it,it should feed voluntarily.Many times wc eastern milks wont accept domestic rodents and are best released where they are found.Why be so concerned about the DNR now?You werent when you took the animal in,were you?Those laws are primarily to stop non-natives and illeagal repopulation attempts.Good luck,Jeff

To clarify... I did not remove this animal from the basement, it was brought to me by a friend of the homeowner, who wanted the snake out of her house. At that point, it was not possible to release it where it was found. That being said, thanks for the advice.

try a five-lined skink or a ground skink if you can get one. that's what i had to do to get mine to eat. now, he eats unscented pinks and fuzzies. good luck!

greg