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[theartbook35]

Thanks for the tips but it's all been done. She was on thawed first, then pre-killed became easier as the prey items got bigger. After her first 6 month fast she snapped out of it with live rats. After that, she was good for a while. Then came the 11 month fast.. everything was offered from pre-killed, brained, dipped in chicken broth, dripping fresh blood, live mice, rats, gerbils.. I think after not eating for such a long time that her metabolism was pretty screwed. She lost a lot of weight in that time and force feeding was the only option. She was force fed 2 pinkie rats every 5 days until she defecated and I was sure her digestive system was working properly. After about 4 weeks of force feeding I was able to get her to take live African Soft Furred rats. She ate well for about 2 months and stopped again.. won't take anything now. I'm going to wait a bit before resorting to force feeds again. Sometimes they will just starve to death and I just can't live with that.

They say ball pythons are a great starter snake. As far as care and temper, they are great, but a lot of people aren't aware of how often feeding problems can pop up for seemingly no reason. It can be quite frustrating and worrisome.

I love them dearly, I really do. They are my favorite snake, and favorite animal. They are such sweet hearts, and so easy to handle and socialize. The only thing stopping me from getting one is the fasting. I'd be an emotional wreck after a while, knowing how much I simply love them.

How is the overall temper on your boa? I know they are popular as pets, but, every one I've encountered seems to not like me. Boa constrictors are seriously the only snake species that I cannot get along with. (I have a ton of experience handling snakes. Not having as pets, just handling).

[jenaero]

It was difficult at first with her fasting but I learned not to worry so much. Kind of like being a new parent. If you really want one that bad, don't let feeding issues stop you from getting one! I may even be getting another. Just research the heck out of it and get one when you feel you're ready. I can direct you to several useful forums with lots of experienced keepers.

My boa was a prick when I brought him home. His name came about because of his attitude. Couldn't reach in to get his water dish without getting nailed a few times. With hook training and handling he got better over time. Took about 6-8 months before he stopped biting me. He still has his moods and will hiss quite loudly and strike when he doesn't want me in his cage. These strikes tho aren't meant to bite. He strikes now with mouth closed and will bump his nose against my hand/arm to show me he means business without hurting me. Handling/hook training and keeping a routine helps a lot.

[theartbook35]

It was difficult at first with her fasting but I learned not to worry so much. Kind of like being a new parent. If you really want one that bad, don't let feeding issues stop you from getting one! I may even be getting another. Just research the heck out of it and get one when you feel you're ready. I can direct you to several useful forums with lots of experienced keepers.

My boa was a prick when I brought him home. His name came about because of his attitude. Couldn't reach in to get his water dish without getting nailed a few times. With hook training and handling he got better over time. Took about 6-8 months before he stopped biting me. He still has his moods and will hiss quite loudly and strike when he doesn't want me in his cage. These strikes tho aren't meant to bite. He strikes now with mouth closed and will bump his nose against my hand/arm to show me he means business without hurting me. Handling/hook training and keeping a routine helps a lot.

I don't like the idea of having to force feed. Something about that really bothers me. I know that can't possibly be comfortable for the snake at all. I also have a dislike for live food... Live food fights back.

I'd love to see this forum you mentioned and what some people's solutions are. I know fasting is a normal behavior, for the most part, but they seem to get carried away and take it too far. I'd like my BP to be healthy and content if I get one.

[jenaero]

It sure doesn't look comfortable, but I believe it saved her life.

A couple of the forums I visit and trust are:

www.constrictors.com

www.ball-pythons.net

www.redtailboa.net