In need of help with my diamond

[aussie_aj]

Around 4 weeks ago now i was given a diamond python from a local man, who had been given it off a mate etc etc. I believe its not all that old its around 1.2m long beautiful colouring. I am looking for just some general help with its upkeep. First of all how do i tell if its male or female? Second is there any real way of estimating its age? I have always wanted a snake and this is my first. He come with a wooden enclosure around 1.5m high and around .8m wide with a glass front. What do i need to do in terms of lighting and heating. Also he hasnt eaten since ive had him although he is in the middle of shedding. Please any and all help would be greatly appreciated as he is a beautiful snake and i want him to to happy and healthy.

 

[harley0402]

dont try to feed him if he is shedding, just leave him be, make sure he has a hide box and a water bowl, He dosent sound that old, do you have a licence ?? the enclosure sounds good, try using a heat mat or an overhead heat lamp with a protective cage, you can buy them from pet stores and some produces. Im not sure about sexing, iv never done it. When he is finshed shedding, he would propably feed on sub adult rats, defrosted in warm water then dried with paper towel, google diamond python care sheet and you will find heaps of info. Good luck

 

[xxMelissaxx]

How long have you had it?

Firstly, you will need to contact the authorities to advise them of the situation. Keeping an animal unlicensed can get you into a load of trouble. Let them know what is going on, and they will tell you what you need to do.

What state are you in?

When you say "in the middle of shedding", what exactly do you mean? It may have retained some skin and not shed properly, and this could cause serious problems. Can you post a picture? How long has it been "in the middle of shedding?"

Can you post a picture of the enclosure? You will need to purchase a thermostat and a heat lamp/mat. You will also need a cage for the light to prevent burns. You will need to have a thermal gradient in the enclosure, so the python can regulate its body temperature.

But contact the authorities on Monday - you are currently keeping this snake illegally.

You need to do a fair bit of reading, and learn the husbandry requirements of this snake. There is plenty of information out there that is easy to find, so ensure that you take the time to research it. You should really not have taken over the care of this animal if you do not know how to even heat the enclosure.

It is sad to see animals passed around so carelessly, and to people that have no idea how to look after them.

 

[xxMelissaxx]

Sorry, ignore my first question - just realised that you said you obtained it approximately a month ago.