I have a wild-caught Eastern Garter (rescued him from a cat attack 1 year ago). He was apparently uninjured but I decided to keep him due to the prevalence of wild cats, hawks, etc. in my area. I figured a cozy, safe home was a deserved alternative after being in the clutches of a cat. From the get-go, he's been an avid eater (worms, fish and pinkies/fuzzies). I created a really cool vivarium for him with shelters, artificial vegetation, climbs, hides, under-base heat pads and timed lighting/overhead heat lamp for daytime. He's still quite shy and will often hide with too much movement outside the tank (a 45 gallon aquarium). He musks me almost every time I pick him up and he can be quite snappy at times. He's gone through about 4-5 "sheds" since I've had him and I assume from his size (about 24") that he's about 1.5 to 2.5 years old. While he still exhibits fairly normal behavior and seems interested in food, when presented, he has not eaten in about 2+ weeks. I've tried all his favorites listed above and he'll tongue-flick all around the tank, even nose the food, but will not eat. I really became nervous when he turned his nose up at live fish in this water bowl (he normally goes nuts for that!!). I'm in New Jersey and began to think maybe I should return him to the wild since I don't want him to wither and die on my watch. But we're getting into cooler weather finally, and I don't know if he'll be able to find a shelter for the winter, especially since he did not brumate last winter. I also fear he may not be able to fend for himself in the wild. I just want to do what's best for him. Any help, ideas, input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks much in advance!