what is this discoloration looks like missing scales?

[Brandonrez]

Had this guy since he 9/15/12 always thought it was just from shedding or something. but he's always had it anyone know what causes it. tried to take best pics I can he doesn't like to stay still.

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[The Serpent Merchant]

Looks like he lost a few scales at some point. They will probably come back with time, but if they don't it really shouldn't be anything to worry about.

[sho220]

I've seen that before on snakes that have had a dry shed but it usually goes away after the next good shed. Odd that it's been that way for over a year...