Are these healthy scales?

[raf802]

Hi all,

I have had my first ball/royal python for about a month now. And I am concerned whether his scales are showing signs of bad husbandry or simply a visual defect. I took him to the vets when I first got him and all was fine, but I don't think the vet saw the scales up close.
He has a hot spot of 31/32 degrees celsius, and an ambient air temperatures of 27 to 30 degrees. Humidity is 60%. He is eating regularly without issues.

Firstly, some of his head scales appear "pushed in". The best I can describe these is like bubble wrap that is half popped.


Secondly, the two large central scales below his nostrils (above heat pits) have a shine or dull marking that looks like a dried up water mark. (Looks like the scale goes from smooth to rough in the image).



Any help and advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Bogertophis]

He's probably a little dehydrated, &/or maybe due for a shed. Wait until after the next shed & see how he looks then. Many snakes also push with their noses,
& it's not like he's going to tell you about that either. I wouldn't lose sleep over this.