Thanks everyone,

Scott called about it and once again reassured me that every year even he has very unexpected losses. (And of course that as always lead to like an hour long conversation, lol!!!)

Tom, that male was from a female Scott had that was really super red like him, he says she was his best looking girl. Last year she had an internal blockage and he knew she was dying, and the blockage must have rendered her unable to pass her babies as well. She was able to push him out before she passed away with a whole brood of flames still inside of her. Scott was nice enough to hold that last remaining male for me, and even told me that he'd be interested in him or his offspring some day. I am really bummed, but equally bummed to hear that Scott lost his albino paradox eastern male in brumation this year. Must be awful

I will just be thankful for all the other healthy garters thriving in my care. I do expect losses to happen, even suddenly. But, It just sucks that it had to be my prized male flame, and not my evil similis or my ribbon (NOT that i wish death upon them but you know what I mean)