Honest answer needed

[ssssnakeluvr]

you can start cooling him down...when I have snakes go off feed th is time of the year (normal thing) I put them down for a month or so depending on size. I usually take my breeders off feed late in Oct and put them in the garage in November. Smaller snakes that go off feed for 2-3 weeks this time of the year get put in the garage for a month for a brief brumation cycle. this usually works.

[enigma200316]

I agree with all the above......................

[garterking]

you can start cooling him down...when I have snakes go off feed th is time of the year (normal thing) I put them down for a month or so depending on size. I usually take my breeders off feed late in Oct and put them in the garage in November. Smaller snakes that go off feed for 2-3 weeks this time of the year get put in the garage for a month for a brief brumation cycle. this usually works.

I would try an early and brief brumation, but my problem is it's still upper 70's here during the day, 80 again by weeks end, and upper 50's or 60 at night. I would put him in the basement, but I can't get it to the mid 50's where I think he should be.
That's why I was considering letting him go in the same place I found him. I figured he would know the area, would have time to fatten up a bit, then go to the same place he has the past couple years for the winter. If I am to release him, I have to do it soon.
I just want to give him the best chance on survival. Unless I consider force feeding (which I have never done and not so sure of myself) I don't think he could go the distance, since he stopped eating this early.

Thanks for everyone's help, I'm still in limbo as to what to do so I would appreciate all suggestions.

Mike

[MoJo]

I have had snakes go off food for months at a time with no ill effects. If he is not losing weight and is otherwise well try not to worry about him. He will start eating when he is ready.

I agree with the others that have said that after being in captivity for this long he should not be released.

Good Luck,

Joanna