Should I refrain from feeding my pet python (33"+) wild-caught lizards and mice?

Question

I recently acquired a beautiful 33" ball (Royal) python. The "herp guy" at the local pet store said that wild pythons are not accustomed to eating mice, but they do like eating lizards and other small reptiles. We've got lots of lizards and frogs on our property, and at least one mouse living in the house.

I'm intent on capturing a lizard to feed to my python, but I'm afraid that perhaps he could catch some illness from the wild reptile in doing so. Any thoughts? Same goes for the mouse (which I will catch anyway, if only to remove him from my house)

On a side note, I did catch some frogs, but it was apparent that he was not interested- they were quite small, so I bet that was a large reason why.

Answer 1

Wild caught anything, and I mean anything from the snake to the mice, are sealed packets of parasites, mites, diseases and other things waiting to explode on you. If you snake is wild caught, take it to the vet along with a recent sample of stool to get it tested for parasites and any other ailment. Do not feed your snake things you have caught in the wild, because you don't know what they've eaten, stepped on or have been drenched on. Some frogs can also be toxic for your new pet. My .02 cents? Get some forzen or PK mice from a reputable store or online provider and stay on the safe side.

Answer 2

well the problem is when something has not been raised in captivity it could poison your snake..Some frogs are poisonous

Answer 3

I myself wouldn't do wild caught due to possible disease also some frogs are toxic to other animals as for the mouse if it has gotten into any poison that would be a problem I'd try store mice even a rat at that size

Answer 4

Yes.

Only feed it store bought prey. Wild lizards and mice can introduce parasites and diseases to your snake. Also, you put yourself at risk for things like rabies when you handle wild mammals and rodents.

Answer 5

no don't feed wild caught food as you can't tell what parasites they are carrying it would be a shame to feed your snake something that can make it sick, a Snake will adapt to captive food over time so don't worry too much

Answer 6

most definately... you shouldn't feed your pets any thing that was not raised in captivity due to parasites, disease and or anything else that could cause harm to your pet!!!!!!