Thread: Sexing snakes
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Old 12-05-2006, 07:21 PM   #3 (permalink)
Cazador
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Re: Sexing snakes

Like Roy mentioned, sexing young snakes by the visual method can be difficult. The erector muscles that evert the hemipenes get larger as a male snake matures, and they become easier to see. Popping isn't practical on a snake of that size. That leaves probing as the most reliable option, but this method has risks if you don't learn the technique properly. If you post a good enough picture of the snake's underside including at least about 3" above and below the vent, we might be able to offer second and third opinions. The tail and body have to be straight, and the snake has to be fairly relaxed (not stretched out). The point-of-view of the picture should be from the snake's centerline.
Rick
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