[Cazador]

Hi Shayna,

I don't want to add a bunch of confusion, but in the washed out picture, I think I can see a bit of swelling posterior to the vent. I'm not sure, but Rook may actually be a he. Don't quote me based on what I thought I saw in that picture, but if the "tail" starts where your second mark is, it's definitely a male. Swelling from the musk glands only cause enlargement within the first few scale lengths behind the vent. Only the hemipenes and their muscles cause swelling beyond about 3-4 scale lengths posterior to the vent.

In the washed out picture, it also looks like Rook may have part of the old skin still attached to the last inch or so of his tail. If it hardens, it can cut off the blood flow and cause him to lose that portion of his tail. You have plenty of time, but if I interpreted the picture right, you should wet Rook and try pealing the rest of the old skin off. Best wishes,

Rick