Soaking.

[Tim Personguy]

Hello everyone.
I have often observed my ball python soaking in his water dish. I have heard that this is because he is starting to shed, but i don't see any other signs of shedding. Also if i gently pull on his underside there appears to be some loose skin. I don't think he's dehydrated because he eats fine and i have even seen him with his head under water.
Thanks in advance
-Tim

[DZ Reptiles]

Is the humidity to low? Snakes will soak if the humidity is to low.
Are there any signs of mites?

[Foschi Exotic Serpents]

Check the water closely for tiny round bugs. On the bottom or sides of the enclosure. Around the snakes eyes or heat pits. If there is no sign of mites then check to be sure the temperatures are correct for the hot side and cool side. If everything is ok then you just have a soaker and there is nothing to worry about.

[Tim Personguy]

Nope no drowned mites anywhere or on the snakes body. The temp defenatly isn't too hot.

[ClarkT]

Must just be a soaker. Keep an eye open for mites, though.

[blackcrystal22]

What's the warmside temperature? What's the ambient temperature? What's the % humidity?

[Foschi Exotic Serpents]

If you can find a different way to keep the humidity high, like spraying with a water bottle once a day, then get a smaller bowl. They sell ceramic reptile bowls that are rather narrow but a bit taller. Or just use the plastic dog or cat bowls that have a wide base but in a smaller size. I have a couple soakers and had to go this route because they were constantly spilling all the water out and making a mess.

[Tim Personguy]

I will keep looking for mites. The bowl is actually quite small so he soaks parts of him at a time. I always spray the enclosure since its a aquarium and doesn't keep humidity well. I mist it around 4-5 times a day. Maybe he just likes soaking, since he doesn't seem to be going into shed.
Thanks
-Tim