Shedding question

[Megs]

I feel like I am posting a lot of stupid questions but it's been forever since I've had a snake and this is the first time I've ever had a bp. So, my bp, Nora, is getting ready to shed. I haven't seen her soaking in her water at all and it was suggested that i just pick her up and put her in her water bowl for a few minutes to help loosen her skin. I know it's not a good idea to handle her while she is shedding so wanted to get another opinion. Thank you!

[Eric Alan]

There's no reason to soak her before a shed. It could actually have the opposite effect that you would think it would. BPs generate their own "shedding lubrication", and soaking/bathing an animal that's in shed could end up washing away the natural fluids that help them shed on their own.

Just make sure her humidity level is where it needs to be and she has plenty of water to drink and she'll be fine. Good luck to you both!

If you haven't already, there's a fantastic write-up on the entire shedding process here: http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...edding-Process.

Best regards,
Eric

[Megs]

OK thanks! I thought that advice was a little strange. Her humidity has been a bit of an issue lately. I'm having a hard time getting it to stay high enough. How high should it be for shedding? I know it needs to be a little higher. It's been 55-60% but that's from misting it a lot. Any suggestions?

[Eric Alan]

What kind of enclosure do you keep her in?

[Megs]

She is in a glass tank enclosure with a screen top lid.

[Eric Alan]

She is in a glass tank enclosure with a screen top lid.

Have you tried the aluminum foil trick yet? See this thread for details (and other suggestions): http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...With-Pictures!.

[Megs]

Thank you! I haven't heard of this trick yet but I will check it out.

[SKO]

Sphagnum moss is your friend! So is cyrpess mulch. I used the towel over the screen method when I had tanks, worked great.