Success!

[Mark Jones]

Yes, I know I should have fed dead. But live is what I had and not knowing the best way to kill the mouse for snake food, I went with what I know.

Anyhoo, My 18" BCI *finally* decided she was hungry and nailed the hopper. I was watchng the entire time. She struck the hopper HARD, but did not hold. Stunned the hopper badly though. It couldn't even stand up. Then she positioned for a good bite and struck again, held, and constricted. Quick and efficient. She had a hard time at first getting the hopper started. It's head was kinda sideways with the nose sticking out the right side of her mouth. She finally turned it loose, repositioned, and was done swallowing almost before I remembered to get the camera! (photo attached)

She's back in her tank now and up on a tree limb basking. Kinda lumpy and rather sleepy. <wink> I feel better now she has eaten. And I suppose I should have 'her' sexed at some point to be sure.

Omar*

[Mark Jones]

BTW: How many days should I wait before handling her again?

I remember 26 years ago I'd wait two days, until the 'lump' disappeared. But back then I was just wingng it.

Omar* o>

[CARLiTO_]

2-3 days is about right

[HeRpZ03]

I personally don't handle my BCI untill he has defecated after a feeding, but thats just me. 4-6 days is a more safe and reasonable time IMO.

[BOA68]

2 days. If you have proper temps in your tank, the snake has digested the food item enough for you to hold him.

[JD@reptiles]

2 days... after 6 its time to feed them agian.... lol

[bahreptiles]

I agree 2days waiting and then feed after 7 days.