thanks guys! never expected so many replies - great forum...
took this pic last night and used the snake measuring software... total length: 17.5", tail: 3.8", body (including head): 13.7".
so a 3.6 : 1 body:tail ratio
if anyone else has done any measurements like these and know for certain the snakes' sex, it would be great if you could post them and maybe we can spot a pattern. thanks again!!!
ps. i'll try and see if i can get a few more better pictures.