defensive strike

[sgtsnake]

The retic I have is little and takes hoppers just fine. I decided to try a small and all she did was strike at it defensively. ..not bite or constrict. I assume she did this because the prey item is just too big right now?

[franks]

Possibly. She could have just felt vulnerable more than hungry at the moment. Was the prey live?

[sgtsnake]

No..it was F/T

[guyabano]

Do you have hides? Smaller snakes tend to be insecure. Maybe your retic would like some cover before trying something larger and riskier (in it's mind).

[retic1987]

Does you're cage open from the top? If so the snake seeing something coming down at it may have put the snake in a defense mode

[sgtsnake]

Yea. I went old school and put her in a tiny box by herself with he the rat pup and she ate it right up. Not much of a lump so I'm trying a small rat in a week

Oh I also covered about 3/4 of each side with black duct tape..maybe it will help call him

[millertime89]

Do not continue doing that. The last thing you want in an adult retic is one that will not eat in their cage. Add hides or ground cover.

[IW17]

Good advice. I couldn't imagine trying to remove either of mine on feeding day without coming away from it very bloody.

[millertime89]

Good advice. I couldn't imagine trying to remove either of mine on feeding day without coming away from it very bloody.

Bingo. Several of mine will strike anything/everything for about 48 hours after feeding. Insane feeding response.