ball python attitude suring shed

[kmooresd85]

so ive noticed that my ball's been less active but today is feeding day so i went to get her out of the cage and for the first time she hissed. she also didnt eat. i noticed her eyes were kind of bluish so im guessing shes going into shed. this is the first shed since ive had it. are they generally more irritable during shed? also, will they calm down some after? shes never hissed at me until now so im guessing its because the shed and shes also always ate. please let me know.

[Skittles1101]

Here is a good thread on the shedding process.
http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...edding-Process

They cannot see very well when they are going blue (or opaque) because the thin layer of skin over the eyes (caps) builds up a fluid underneath them, causing that "smokey" look. Just imagine being partially blind and having someone reach and wave a hand in your face, but you can't see it's a hand. I generally leave mine alone when they start to shed, it prevents me from getting bit defensively and it prevents them from being stressed while they are trying to shed. She should go back to her "normal" attitude after she successfully sheds.

Oh and 9 times out of 10 they won't eat while in shed. I always offer, but can tell immediately if they won't take it. Just try again next feeding time (5-7 days later).