What is the target body temperature for frozen-thawed (F/T) prey offered to a Ball Python?

98 to 100°F

The objective when warming frozen-thawed prey is to mimic the internal body temperature of a living mammal, which is considered ideal for palatability and safety. This target range is specified as 98 to 100°F. Achieving this specific temperature requires slow thawing, typically in the refrigerator overnight, followed by a quick warm-up phase. The warm-up involves placing the rodent in a sealed, BPA-free plastic bag submerged in warm (not boiling) water for about 15 to 30 minutes just before presentation. It is imperative that the prey is thawed completely through to the core; a partially frozen center can lead to the snake refusing the meal or suffering from digestive upset. If the prey is not warmed sufficiently close to this target, the snake may not recognize it as viable food.