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Scale prob

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  • 08-08-2008, 03:11 PM
    PythonBlitz
    Scale prob
    http://www.ball-pythons.net/gallery/...ture_96111.jpg

    The scales look damaged. Looks like its pulled back a couple fell off. I dont know if this is shedding:confused: Ive had the snake for 3 weeks now. My humidity fluctuates a lot from dry to humid. On the belly side the scales feel like they get pulled back easily. Is this bad?

    ***You can see the area just past its head, were it coils out, and you can see his neck.***
  • 08-08-2008, 03:12 PM
    Freakie_frog
    Re: Scale prob
    I have to be honest it looks like a bite or a wound of some kind
  • 08-08-2008, 03:21 PM
    PythonBlitz
    Re: Scale prob
    Can mites do that?
  • 08-08-2008, 03:21 PM
    PythonBlitz
    Re: Scale prob
    What about the scales being easy to pull back when it moves across my hand?
  • 08-08-2008, 04:34 PM
    defuze
    Re: Scale prob
    Mine had a spot on his side, small..i was thinking it was from a bad spot on his branch in his enclosure, but...it went away after his shed. Could be a bite, or a scratch....i dont know, new to snakes. Also, scales being easy to pull back? You shouldnt feel anything if u are feeling from head to tail. But just my input, take care, gl
  • 08-08-2008, 04:35 PM
    bigballs
    Re: Scale prob
    do you have a hygrometer within the enclosure so that you can measure the humididty levels? if you dont have one yet it would be a good idea to get one so you can accurately figure out how humid or how dry the air is.
  • 08-08-2008, 04:42 PM
    Inknsteel
    Re: Scale prob
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Freakie_frog View Post
    I have to be honest it looks like a bite or a wound of some kind

    +1... It looks like a healing wound... Give it a couple sheds and it should get better. Meanwhile, check for any sharp objects in the tank, and also make sure there are no exposed heat lamps or anything similar that the snake could get burned on.
  • 08-08-2008, 04:42 PM
    PythonBlitz
    Re: Scale prob
    I keep it 40 to 60%. Im not allways able to spray mist it so Ive come home to 25 30% before.
  • 08-10-2008, 06:24 AM
    PythonBlitz
    Re: Scale prob
    So I looked at my snake under the light this morning at an angle to see if the scales lay flush on its body. There are a few scales that are lefted and look like something is under them. I already sprayed the enclosure with PAM and I sprayed the snake with mite off. What can I do about its scales? Some help would be nice. I posted a pic that turned out to be bite wounds. So I guess Im having some tuff mites that wont give up easily. Help please.
  • 08-10-2008, 10:31 AM
    dr del
    Re: Scale prob
    Hi,

    Well you should be able to see ticks sticking out from under the raised scales if that is whats causing them I think? Also check in the heatpits and in the fold under the chin.

    Can you get us a good photo of it? (tough I know considering the size)

    It's not uncommon to have a few scales that get lifted or bent back slightly on cage furniture etc - if that is what has caused it then they will be fine after the next shed but better safe than sorry. :)


    dr del
  • 08-10-2008, 10:51 AM
    missi182
    Re: Scale prob
    When my bp gets squirmy his scales will catch on my nails and I always feel bad, I started cutting my nails shorter so it wouldn't happen as much. If you rub your bp from tail to head at all you will feel belly scales catch your fingers, which is probably a little unpleasant for your snake but won't hurt him. I suggest you fix your humidity first, allow him to have a good shed in proper humidity, then examine him again. Of course that does not mean ignore the possibility of mites, but don't freak out just yet.

    To help with your humidity you can try any or all of these:

    1. You can purchase a small humidifier for $20-$30, and it will work wonders in a small-to medium sized room. I use a no-mist humidifier and I have it on a shelf just above my tank. 60% humidity almost always:)

    2. Seal the top of your tank 75%, and leave 25% open for heat and ventilation. Use a water dish that has alot of surface area. Place the water partially over a controlled UTH to help the water evaporate into the tank.

    3. Cover the top of your tank with a damp towel (a tea towel or a small hand towel). Wash/switch the towel every few days and when you soak it once a day, rinse it with hot water and soap to help prevent bacteria from building up.

    ****It is very important to properly measure your humidity. Use a digital hygrometer - dials stick and can be VERY inaccurate. A digital hygrometer costs about $10 at Walmart or Home Depot, and you can buy thermometer/hygrometer combos. This is a $10 investment you won't regret*******
  • 08-12-2008, 02:55 PM
    PythonBlitz
    Re: Scale prob
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by dr del View Post
    Hi,

    Well you should be able to see ticks sticking out from under the raised scales if that is whats causing them I think? Also check in the heatpits and in the fold under the chin.

    Can you get us a good photo of it? (tough I know considering the size)



    dr del

    Whats the heatpit? Ill get post pics soon.

    I dont see any ticks. Had mites not too long ago.
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