Hemipenes

Hemipenes are the paired male reproductive organs in snakes and lizards, stored inverted inside the tail base behind the vent — which is why males often have a thicker, longer tail base.

Their presence is what "popping" or "probing" checks for when sexing snakes — but these are techniques for experienced keepers or vets, because done wrongly they injure the animal. When in doubt, don't DIY it.

← Back to the full glossary