strange deformity in hatchling

[Hjorrdis]

This is my second clutch of corns from my first two corn snakes, and there happened to be 27 eggs. So far 13 snakes have emerged, and the first 12 look really really healthy. The thirteenth still had some umbilical cord hanging from it when I pulled it out, so I'm wondering if somehow it got broken and this snake hasn't gotten everything it needs. As well it has an extremely deformed head and I really don't think both eyes are there and working. It does seem to be sensitive to light, but doesn't seem to hold water very well and I've seen no tongue. I got it to drink some water and it seems to be doing okay, but this snake is really weak compared to the others.

Is there anything I can do to make sure it has the best chance of pulling through? I really would hate to see it die, even though it seems to have extensive problems.

 

[DAND]

Chances are if it has an "extremely deformed head" you'd be better off culling it. If it's head is not formed properly then there is a very good chance other things like internal organs are not formed properly as well and it will probably end up dying slowly.

 

[Hjorrdis]

well here's a picture... this one seems to have a lot more energy today... so maybe it's doing ok.. but I dunno if it'll make it.... just look.

 

[Matt Haines]

I don't see the picture.

 

[Hjorrdis]

don't think the picture showed, so here's a link...

http://www.castratedturkey.com/deformedsnake.jpg

 

[DAND]

Is the other side of it's head as deformed as the side shown in the picture?

 

[Hjorrdis]

no, the other side looks like it should except there's skin where the eye should be.

 

[DAND]

I'd still suggest culling it. Chances are it's got other issues that are not visible as well as the head deformities.

 

[Hjorrdis]

yeah that sounds like the only choice, really

 

[DAND]

To the freezer with unlucky number 13.

 

[Crested Lady]

It's nicer than a slow death. Though, I'm sorry that you had to lose one.