Coupla shedding questions

[Janus]

Mitch is going through his first shed (at least for the time that I've had him) so I came up with a couple questions.....

-How often do they shed?
-Once started, how long does the shedding process last?
-Will he refuse to eat? Or should I just refrain from feeding him durring a shed even if he would eat?
-I know the humidity should be increased, around what % should it be at?
-No handling during the shedding process right?

[Jeanne]

Here ya go, you will find alot of great info here:
http://ball-pythons.net/modules.php?...warticle&id=52

[Janus]

Yea, that was nice and all, but the shedding portion of that article was short and did not answer the majority of my questions....

[Adam_Wysocki]

Maybe this will help.

-How often do they shed?

No one can tell you for sure. It depends on your snakes age, feeding schedule, and husbandry. Some shed as much as every 3 weeks, other, older snakes will shed a handful of times a year.

-Once started, how long does the shedding process last?

Depends on the snake ... generally anywhere from 6 - 14 days.

-Will he refuse to eat? Or should I just refrain from feeding him durring a shed even if he would eat?

He may or may not eat during shed. It depends on the snake. There is no harm in skipping a meal or two until the shed is complete. Most captive ball pythons are way over fed any way.

-I know the humidity should be increased, around what % should it be at?

Generally, 50% - 60% should be fine. Every snake is different, so if your snake has problems shedding at that humidity level, you might want to consider a humid hide box.

-No handling during the shedding process right?

Again, really up to your snake. During the shedding process he will basically be blind, itchy, and his skin will feel really tight ... it is a stressful, uncomfortable period for snakes ... that said, some may do fine with short handling sessions ... others will not.

Unfortunately, all snakes are individuals .... They are animals, each with their own personalities and there is no one "mold" or "instruction book" that works for each and every one. The trick is to learn the boundaries and get to know your snake as an individual animal.

-adam

[Janus]

Thanks Adam, very informative.... and as always you've been super helpful