Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hatchlings are two weeks old and two have eaten f/t pinks. The others seem interested but will not take it in their mouth. I've tried everything I know to tempt them including scenting with live anoles. How do you all get them to eat? Is starvation in their future? Or will they one day just start eating? Please give me some encouragement. Thanks.

A lot of kingsnake breeders do not even attempt to feed their hatchlings for the 1st month.

They may not be hungry yet or they may not be ready. Please, you are worrying for nothing - especially Brooks Kings... They will eat. I have never seen a Brooks King that refused a meal, once they get started - it's one of their best traits!!!

I have a handful of Eastern Chain hatchlings that are a week old already and just now blue - I am yawning at the challenge. I bought 5 Outer Banks Kings last year right out of the egg and I got them going after a few months. I think you will be fine with the Brooksi.

Peter Jolles

Thanks, Peter, for the encouragment. Exactly what I wanted to hear. I will quit worrying and relax and enjoy the babies more. I had never heard that some folks don't even try for sometimes a month. Wow. I'm used to cornsnakes that are so much easier to get started. This forum is the best because of the competent and knowledgable folks like you that post here. Thanks, again.

They will eat sooner or later! If you are getting nervous try a live pinkie.The movement will usually stimulate them to eat.

Hi,

Red Tuffy minnows work . Get the snake gently behind the head then take the minnow and press it against his mouth . When his mouth pops open place the tuffy in his mouth a little way and put the snake down . He'll sit there with the minnow in his mouth for a second then will begin to eat it . After he takes the minnows a few times scent the pinky mice with the minnows and use the same technique . Your local aquarium shop should carry tuffy minnows .

Derek