Hi So I have had my ackie for a while it is a sub adult, we have no idea what sex it is and not entirly fussed TBH, but I have just been sitting here watching it and it went to the loo, then was walking a bit funny, then it stopped, shot out these long red things with like stars on the end either side of its vent, pulled them back in and off it trotted, happy as owt and walking normally. Would these be the hemipines suggesting it is a male or? Should I be concerned it has done it? Has anyone else seen this before? Thanks Heather
Hi Heather, First, welcome to the forum. Second, you have definitely got a male, it was indeed the hemipenes. Why he did it I'm not sure, could be just a "male thing". Did he appear to strain when he went, that may have triggered it. The fact he retracted them immediately suggests there is nothing wrong. If they stay out for long periods then a vet trip is strongly suggested. Just keep an eye on him, if this occurs on a regular basis then it may warrant further investigation. You will need to shop around to find a really good herp vet, who knows his stuff, to get any real answers. In the mean time dont worry, could have been a "one off".
Hi and thanks No he didnt appear to strain just went then had his tailed kinda kinked to one side, had a waddle over to a different area, stretched then shot them out and straight back in like 2 seconds i was like oh what was that, thought it would have been hemipines as females dont have anything there do they? Cool well at least i know the sex of it, had him for about 3 weeks and never handled by previous owner so maybe that had something to do with it, I dont know never seen him do it before but have seen him go to the loo before, he is fine now and charging around like a looney again. Thanks again
Hi, The fact you have only had him for 3 weeks, he will still be settling in. As it was so quick he was probably "marking out" his territory, as ackies, along with many other species, are very territorial. Count yourself lucky observing such a ritual, not often seen. You have nothing to worry about, just enjoy your new Male friend.
