Red Tail Shedding Question

[aaron_cg]

So I have 2 snakes, that I just got yesterday, a red tail and a ball python... Anyways, I was taking the ball out so my little brother could hold it, and the red tail seemed very tense to me. Did not strike, but tensed back like she wanted to. Anyways, she shed last night, this morning, I removed the skin from the tanks while she was asleep. My question is, how long should I wait to pick her up, touch her, etc? I was told to wait a week after to feed her, but nothing about picking her up or handling her.

[shaunyboy]

its better to get snakes eating regular before handling them mate

i preffer them to have ate 3 or 4 times

also i give my snakes 3 days to digest their meal before handling

cheers shaun

[aaron_cg]

Ok, right now she is on a regular schedule, and has been from what I am told. What about after a shed? How long after they shed can you handle them, safely?

[rmfsnakes32]

After a healthy shed I handle right away but would wait till a regular feeding schedule to handle

[aaron_cg]

Do you feed in tank, or in a separate container? I have been told to feed in a separate container.

[Gungirl]

Always feed in the same tank.. moving them only stresses them out.

[aaron_cg]

Really now? I have always been told that if you feed them in there habitat, then the snake will associate your hand with food. But, if you have done it, then i guess I will feed in the habitat, im just a little reluctant to do so I guess

[Gungirl]

Think about this.. if you feed outside of the tank then every time you take them out of the tank they will think you are offering food. Not going to happen. Taking them out of the tank only stresses them out. When they eat they feel vulnerable, they should feel safest in their tank. Also once a snake has eaten you need to stay hands off for a few days to allow them to digest. So if you feed out of the tank you add stress and if the snake does eat it might regurge due to being handled right after eating.

[Lankyrob]

So I have 2 snakes, that I just got yesterday, a red tail and a ball python... Anyways, I was taking the ball out so my little brother could hold it, and the red tail seemed very tense to me. Did not strike, but tensed back like she wanted to. Anyways, she shed last night, this morning, I removed the skin from the tanks while she was asleep. My question is, how long should I wait to pick her up, touch her, etc? I was told to wait a week after to feed her, but nothing about picking her up or handling her.


You have a RTB and a BP housed together?? They should be separated as soon as possible!! Snakes rarely are safe kept together when they are the same species but two different species should NEVER be kept together.

[aaron_cg]

That makes alot of sense, I feel alot better about feeding in the tank now, so it shouldn't be a problem, thanks for the heads up, I appreciate everything.

[Lankyrob]

That makes alot of sense, I feel alot better about feeding in the tank now, so it shouldn't be a problem, thanks for the heads up, I appreciate everything.


DO NOT feed in the tank with TWO Snakes in it - you are asking for major issues!

[Gungirl]

You are doing good Aaron_cg Keep asking questions.. We will help you get it all sorted out. But before you get another pet make sure to do your research first not after. :)

Rob he sorted out in another thread that he is going to separate them asap.

[Lankyrob]

You are doing good Aaron_cg Keep asking questions.. We will help you get it all sorted out. But before you get another pet make sure to do your research first not after. :)

Rob he sorted out in another thread that he is going to separate them asap.

Yup, i read this thread first then just read the other :)

[aaron_cg]

Thanks, I have done alot of research, going on for about 7 years into snakes, I guess I just never had the practice. As soon as I get home, im going to the pet store to get the new tank to separate the two... One question about that. The Red Tail seems very tense, so should I move the Ball, and also, should I wait until the snake is moving around to transfer to the new tank, or does that matter?

[Gungirl]

It doesn't matter what one you move as long as you move one soon. If you are scared to grab the boa and move it then move the ball out.