Mites? What?

[starquakes]

Hope I'm not posting too much or anything. ^^;

But, I had a question about mites. I assume a snake can get them in the same manner than some pets get fleas, but what do mites look like? How do I know if my snake has them?

I don't suspect she does, but I want to know what to watch out for in case she does get them for some reason.

Also, is there something you can do to prevent a snake from getting them?

Thanks! :3

[mrshawt]

Look for little black pinhead sized things crawling around the scales. You'll find them especially chillin up near the nose and mouth. Also, you can find them in the waterbowl if the bp soaks (little black flecks).

There really isn't a way to prevent them from getting them that I know of. Just keep a clean enclosure quarantine new snakes. But, once a snake gets them and you get rid of them, they don't normally get them again unless introduced via a new snake or something similar.

Most members here swear by a product called PAM (Provent A Mite). I've never used it, but I've been told it works wonders. A lot of herpers have a can just in case.
linky

[starquakes]

Very helpful, thank you! She definitely doesn't have them then, and she doesn't soak (at least not that I've seen! ). I don't think I'll be getting anyone new, anytime soon. But I'll probably get something to have just in case.

Thanks!

[mrshawt]

No problem.

I battled a long and hard fight with mites when I got my bp. Only I didn't know any of this stuff and I used Reptile Relief. It works, but takes FOREVER. Hopefully you won't ever have to deal with mites, but you have the resources to get rid of them quickly.

[starquakes]

Well, I'm definitely glad I found this place! My girl is still young, maybe 5-6 weeks old or so? When I first read about mites, I was quick to look her over and didn't see anything. Haha.