blood python spitting out water

[kinman]

Our female blood python dripped water from her mouth while being handled by our son. It was clear water in a small tricle. She had drank a lot of water earlier. Is this the spraying that I have heard happens sometimes?

[jfmoore]

No. The “spraying” you have heard about refers to the liquid that would come out of the <u>opposite</u> end of your python if she were sufficiently agitated. This would consist of liquid waste from the kidneys and/or musk from the musk glands in the tail. It’s basically a defensive tactic used by snakes when they feel particularly threatened, as when you are trying to restrain them and they are trying to escape your grasp.

As you’ve noticed, if you handle a snake soon after it has been drinking, water may drain back out of its mouth. That’s perfectly normal, but it’s a good idea to refrain from handling a snake when you see that it has been drinking water recently.

-Joan

[CHRISANDBOIDS14]

Good. I had that happen with my boa, but the water was a little more slimey than normal. Like drool.

[jfmoore]

Originally posted by CHRISANDBOIDS14
I had that happen with my boa, but the water was a little more slimey than normal. Like drool.

Oh sure, absolutely. There's plenty of good slimy stuff (that's the technical term ) in there all the way down normally, and it just mixes in with the water when it comes back up.

-Joan

[CHRISANDBOIDS14]

Well I was happy it was of no concern. I don't know the technical terms. LOL.

[axwielding1]

I have heard of spraying by snakes, but don't bloods also spit? Like projectile vomit? Or is the spitting I've heard of just another reference to the spraying? I've never experienced either with mine, and probably won't as she's a sweetheart.
At least I hope I won't!
ax.

[axwielding1]

BTW.. What's the range of their spray anyway?
ax.

[Grant vg]

no projectile vomit in bloods...lol
that would be odd though....it would definately turn me off of the species...

They're just known for great aim with there musking. lol.
there isn't really a "range" , its not like a spitting cobra, they just empty out on you, thats all.....usually some smelly liquid with some liquidy urates.

[Borneoblood151]

Hey,
Bloods and short-tails, are known to drink copious amounts of water, so it is a good idea to refrain from handling them during this period and for at least 24 hours after.

Angel