Feeding Practices for Snake Hatchlings
Some snakes will need to be fed shortly after hatching from their eggs. Others may wait until after they shed. Do not be concerned, as this is quite normal. Different species of snakes have different tendencies, and in many cases you just need to wait and find out. Feeding the snakes for the first time can be a tricky process, as some species are very picky. You can avoid complications by following some basic hatchling snake feeding guidelines. Once the snakes are hatched, keep them dry at all times. Make sure the room you keep them in is always warm, and that there is no temperature drops at any time. Place an individual snake in a small container, like a margarine container, small box, or bag. Simply place the food item in the container as well. This way, the snake will definitely come across its food, and not have to hunt for it. You obviously want the snake to develop its own hunting tactics, but they may want to feed shortly after hatching. Never place two or more snakes in the same container at the same time. Give each snake their own container, with their own food, to avoid ‘fighting.’ Many snake varieties will need to be separated every time you feed them, as certain members of the group may intimidate the others. You should feed the snakes a mouse no larger than the width of the snake itself. If possible, provide the snake with a hide-box of some sort in the container, so the snake can hide. This will make it more comfortable, and allow the snake to eat when it is ready. It is always better to have your snakes feed as soon as possible though. If it does not eat for more than 1 month, you may have a problem with the environment. Check the temperature levels for your particular species, and any other environmental anomalies. If your snake is not very active, this could be an indication of a problem as well. If nothing comes up, take the snake to your veterinarian. If you are feeding your snake live pinky mice, with no luck, try offering it a dead one. If this doesn’t work, wash the mice with soap, and rinse very well. Snakes will oftentimes not eat their food due to a scent they do not like. Washing the mice will remove a part of the scent. You may also want to try using different food sources. If the snake is very small, crickets can be offered. Crickets do not have much in the way of nutrition, and must be dusted with a multi-vitamin or calcium supplement. Snakes will also readily eat frogs and lizards. It may be hard to find either of these in a pet store that is suitable for food. They can also be much more expensive than using pinky mice.
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