Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have recently aquired a BCI and he has been very active and has eaten like a champ. But he is doing something that has been bothering me. He looks like he is panting. I cannot hear weezing and he only seems to do this when he is being handled or otherwised bothered. I would like to know if this is a symptom of some kind of illness and if i should take him to a vet. I have already raised the temperature in his tank just in case it is a respiratory problem...

thank you in advance for your help
Azailin

I am no expert on this but it sounds like he is blowing at you!How old is this boa?I have a couple of boa's that will do this when they are slightly aggitated!My largest female just loves to spend time with my wife for some reason,whether she's wrapped up around her or just relaxing around on the couch!When its time for her to go up,She gets so mad at me she will blow up like a bull frog an blow an belive me you can here it clear in the opposit side of the house,this is a big girl though!Like I said before I am no expert but it sounds like your boa is doing this!I been waiting for the last year to get nailed by her but knock on wood I haven't YET!LOL!Hopefully I won't cause as big as she is I will probably feel that one!Hope this helps,You are doing the right thing by keeping an eye on his temps!Thanks Eric[Hypoboa]

Thanks! im relieved that this is probably normal behavior. I just got him 3 days ago, so its likely that he is agitated, hes in a new enclosure, and probably isnt used to being handled yet. He hasnt tried to strike though and is well-behaved once u hold him for a few minutes. I have had a corn snake for about a year now and he never did anything like that. thats one reason why i was so worried.

wow, ok. whew... ill still keep a close eye on him though. hopefully he will calm down in a few weeks.

thank you,
Azailin

I would not handle him too much for at least a few more days. He will will not mind if you leave him alone and let him settle in. Just keep checking on him.
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Guess What? I got a fever...and the only prescription is more cowbell!