Hi: I haven't posted for awhile and have a question about the growth rate of my Dumerils Boa "Barney." He's 3 1/2 years old (born Sept., 2010) and I've had him since last June. When I got him he seemed skinny and also started biting rather aggressively. At the end of July I posted questions about his behavior and size and was advised to be patient, feed him more, and handle him gently and he would calm down. At the time he weighed 700 grams. Well, I took all the advice you guys gave me and I couldn't be happier. Now, 7 months later, Barney is the most gentle, docile snake imaginable. He is handled at least briefly almost every day and could not have a calmer personality. NO aggression at all. Never! GREAT pet and much loved by everyone in our household. My concern (maybe I'm worrying for nothing?) is his rate of growth. I weighed him this morning and he is now 2268 grams. That is an increase in weight of almost 1600 grams (apx. 3 1/2 lbs) in 7 months. Is he growing too fast? Is he fat? I am feeding him one large FT rat (apx. 250 gram) every 10-14 days. He is a robust eater and never refuses a meal. Every once in a while (rarely) I'll give him a small FT rat that was rejected by one of my young ball pythons. Those are under 100 grams and I consider them an occasional snack. He seems to be in excellent health in every way. Sheds are perfect, etc. As far as I can tell he couldn't be healthier or happier. Do you think I am feeding him correctly? Is his growth rate OK? I look forward to hearing what you think. Attached are two photos of him next to a beer/soda can. The first was taken on 7/27/13 and the second I took today. His girth now at the widest point is apx. 8 inches. About the same as a soda can.
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