Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello,
I have a Ball python that seems to be on a fast. I am just worried because it has lost some weight and I'm starting to get concerned. First off the temps are good I think, 76 on the cool side and 88 on the warm. Hides on both sides. The last meal was at the very end of January. Last time using the bathroom about 2 to 3 weeks ago. Though unsexed I believe that it is a female, I do not know her age, though I am pretty sure she is of breeding age because I beleive she ovulated during March. She is also extremely active at night.

I guess these are my questions. Is it normal for balls to loose a reasonable amount of weight during their winter fasts. And how long do they usually last.

it all depends on what you mean my resonable amount of weight. a 300 gram snake loosing 100 grams over 3 months is not good. a 1500 gram snake loosing the same is not life threatening. some snakes go off feed for 6 months some do not go off at all. whatever mother nature intends for that perticular snake. when the snake wants to eat it will eat. i would offer every other day and raise the temps a bit. also - try feeding in the evening when it is out and about.

Thank you for your advice.