3 should be a minimum age for Bci, but for true redtails (Bcc), I would try and go a little older, since they don't grow as quickly. I wouldn't put much emphasis on a minimum set weight or length combination, as much as I would an animal that looks mature (not the young, 'gangly' look) with adequate fat reserves, and has finished growing for the most part (snakes generally grow their whole lives, but only a very, very small amount). You don't want to breed too early, since they use every bit of available weight and energy in making babies, and while they are growing, they need every bit of nutrition to aid in healthy development. Additionally, even if a snake reaches a large size quite early, the system is still developing (ie- bones take a significant chunk of time to calcify). Allowing the snake to mature first will give the snake potential for a full lifespan, full growth, and better litters.
Bci tend to have larger litters than Bcc do, sometimes exceeding even 50 babies. My Bcc had a litter of 27 + 1 stillborn, which is considered very large.
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Originally posted by Bartman
A thinner younger female might not have enough fat to support herself as I believe they dont eat while pregnant.
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Some go off feed when they are gravid, while some will continue to feed strongly up until the time they give birth. All depends on the individual. :flick:
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