How long should a keeper typically leave an refused prey item in the enclosure before removing it from a Western Hognose Snake?
Answer
About 20 minutes
Proper management of refused food items is important to maintain a clean and appealing feeding environment for the Western Hognose Snake. If the snake does not take the offered prey, it should not be left indefinitely. The guideline suggests removing the prey item after approximately 20 minutes. Leaving the prey longer poses two main risks: first, the item can begin to dry out, losing the appealing warmth and texture necessary to entice the snake; second, bacteria can rapidly proliferate on the deceased prey, developing odors that might subsequently deter the snake from accepting food during future feeding opportunities.
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