Is my snake getting ready to shed? (Pic)

Is that SAND in the BP enclosure in your first picture?

Good catch!! You gotta get rid of the sand....the second pics looks like the snake has been burrowing in the sand. Go to the care sheets and look at different substrate. Sand is not appropriate.

Soaking her would probably be a great idea. Luke warm water. Watch her close to be sure she gets not to keep her head under water.

Since you got her in a pet shop, chances are good that she is somewhat dry and dehydrated. Most (unfortunetly) pet shops do a terrible job of keeping ball pythons with the adequate heat and humidity.

Be sure to read the care sheet on balls, here on bpnet

Whoops,

Quote:

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Originally Posted by koulgurl

Thank you for the link, I have looked at that previously, but the pictures weren't working for me (just show boxes with an X in them). Maybe I can get a better picture of him tomorrow.... I just don't want him to have a stuck shed or something, and me being totally new not know. :worry:

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Looks like we forgot to fix the pictures in that one.

Here is a link to the one on the boards that already has the pictures fixed for you.

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?t=74289

On your snake pics it looks like he has scuffed the scales in the sand as previously mentioned. Assuming you replace it before his next shed he should come out looking like a million bucks. :D :gj:


dr del

Thanks everyone. :) I know now that you aren't supposed to use sand (that is what the pet shop gave me) but since I have only had him since Saturday, I am not sure if I should change to aspen (which I already have on hand) or if I should give him more time to settle. I don't want him too stressed...he does seem to be doing well so far, however. I haven't noticed any burrowing since I got him, but he was in sand in the cage at the pet store, so he may have there.

Honestly, I would change it over ASAP.

My pythons will get really dull and dry looking before their eyes go blue. Easier to see if you can compare it to be them being soft and shiny after a fresh shed.

Sand for a Ball Python is terrible, you need to switch over to the Aspen immediately, the snake will settle much faster in aspen then he ever will in sand, the sand will just keep him stressed and uncomfortable... please switch it out right away!

Okay, I will switch to the aspen tomorrow when hubby is home. :) (That tank is HEAVY!) Hope no damage has been done. Just really makes me wonder about pet stores.... :(

Heh, wait til you become more educated about Ball Pythons and then look back at what the store employees told you :rolleyes: