Shedding Issue

Hi all!

I'm new to the Ball Python hobby. The issue is a partial shed. I got her about 2-3 weeks ago. I'm sure this is not her first shed since she isnt quite a hatchling. But this is the first time I've had to deal with it. My Humidity is approx 50% on average, and I make sure to mist when it falls below that ammount. Since she Has been shedding I've been trying to boost humidity by misting 3-4 times a day. Anyways her shed came off more in flakes rather than 1 whole peice. She now Has all of it off except for a patch on her back. I'm attempting soaking her the second time now in luke warm water for 10 minutes.

Any other methods You guys can suggest?
How can I prevent this issue from happening next time?
Any need for immediate concern?

Thanks!

first of all, i'd like to ask what kind of enclosure are you using? glass tanks usually hold humidity very poorly. you can off set this by partially covering the mesh top with foil or saran wrap.

over humidifying can lead to a bad shed as well. i've found that the best for my ball is around 60% humidity.

i wouldnt worry too much if your bp sheds in pieces, as long as everything comes off. be sure to check the vent area, and especially around the tail. build up of unshed tail skin can cause constriction of the tail and can cause it to fall off and die. not a good thing for your snake.

hope this helps.

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Originally Posted by notmyfault

i wouldnt worry too much if your bp sheds in pieces, as long as everything comes off. be sure to check the vent area, and especially around the tail. build up of unshed tail skin can cause constriction of the tail and can cause it to fall off and die. not a good thing for your snake.

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That's not a very likely thing to happen, not sure if that can happen at all. But it's always good to have the shedding fully off to prevent layers of shed building up after the next shed if humidity is an issue.

What are you measuring your humidity with? Analog hygrometers are usually inaccurate and not good to get a correct measure with. Digital all the way; you can find one at most pet stores or purchase an AccuRite from Home Depot. They usually run about $15 and also measure temperature so an all around good tool to have.

I wouldn't worry about one bad shed, it happens. Bumping up the humidity by misting is a good way of doing so. You can also provide a humid hide when the time comes for another shed. Damp paper towels work well, or even moss.