What causes the “tail suck” during ovulation in ball pythons?

You know, someone asked me why one of my females was showing the “tail suck” while ovulating and if she was doing it herself — now while I know it’s related to the ovulation and not necessarily her own doing, what exactly IS causing the tail to scrunch up like that?

I’d assume it has to do with the tissues being pulled on and made fairly tight due to the ovulation process itself, like the insides are being pulled on and causing the extreme folding in the underside close to the cloaca. I also don’t want to assume I know anything either, so why I’m posting a topic about it here :joy:

10 Likes

While I don’t have an answer, I’m curious to see folks’ thoughts on this. :thinking:

3 Likes

I think I saw a video on youtube about this years ago but don’t remember the answer or who posted it

3 Likes

Yes That’s what I heard, don’t know if its true. I think the video I saw was by Robert Barraclough but not sure, he has loads on ovulation

5 Likes

I found the video. Its at 15:00.

4 Likes

I love that video! Super comprehensive intro education to breeding

2 Likes