What method is advised for warming a thawed rodent to best mimic the feel and temperature of fresh prey for *Heterodon nasicus*?

Placing the thawed rodent in a sealed bag submerged in very warm water

For a Western Hognose Snake, the sensory experience of the prey item is vital for triggering a feeding response, as they rely on cues related to warmth and texture. To simulate the feel of freshly killed prey, the frozen/thawed rodent must be warmed thoroughly to approximate body temperature. The recommended method involves sealing the thawed rodent within a plastic bag to prevent water contamination and then submerging this bag into very warm water—crucially, the water must not be boiling or excessively hot, as this can cook the prey or damage its integrity. This controlled submergence ensures even warming throughout the entire item, resulting in a soft texture and correct temperature that is highly attractive to the snake.